Watertown motorcyclist dies in I-81 crash in Cortland

Published
June 15, 2026
Outcome
Fatal
Location
Cortland, New York
I-81 South
Incident type
Crash, Motorcycle

Summary

Motorcycle Crash Cortland New York in Cortland, New York: Christopher Messerlie, a 26‑year‑old from Watertown riding a 2001 Victory motorcycle, struck a guard rail on I‑81 South near exit 52 in Cortland at about 10:23 a.m. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Both lanes of I‑81 were closed and traffic backed up nearly two miles while authorities investigated the crash. An investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

Publicly reported parties

Name Role Status
Christopher Messerlie Cyclist Fatal

Original reporting

Watertown motorcyclist dies in I-81 crash in Cortland

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