2 PA Motorcyclists Crash In Sullivan County; 1 Dies

LIBERTY, NY — Two motorcyclists from Pennsylvania were involved Sunday in a crash that killed one of them.

The New York State Police said around 6 p.m. Sunday troopers were sent to 3207 Route 55 in the town of Bethel in Sullivan County for a report of a two motorcycles involved in a crash.

The preliminary investigation found that Joseph Messina, 40, and William Bailey, 42, both from Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania, were traveling south on Route 55 when they collided with each other.

Bailey, who was operating a 2003 Harley Davidson, was ejected from this motorcycle and struck a utility pole.

Life-saving measures were performed by the White Lake Fire Department, but Bailey died from his injuries.

Messina, who was operating a 2012 Harley Davidson, was taken to Garnet Health Medical Center, Catskills, where he was treated and released.

The investigation found that Messina was impaired by alcohol and was charged with driving while intoxicated, a misdemeanor, and first-degree aggravated unlicensed operator, a felony.

He was released on an appearance ticket returnable to the Bethel Town Court June 26.

Police said the incident remains under investigation.