Motorcyclist dies Thursday after 3-car crash in Tilton

TILTON — A motorcyclist was killed at the intersection of East Main Street and Lowe’s Drive on Thursday. Tilton-Northfield Fire Chief Sean Valovanie said he thinks a three-car accident pushed a vehicle into the motorcycle while it was stopped at the traffic light.

Just after 8:30 p.m. on May 7, Tilton-Northfield firefighters were sent to an accident at the intersection in front of the Lowe's plaza, with initial reports of serious injuries. An engine from Tilton-Northfield responded immediately. At the time of the accident, one Tilton-Northfield ambulance was already out at a call, and the department’s other ambulance was unavailable and undergoing repair. Ambulances from Sanbornton and Franklin were immediately requested.

Crews found a crash involving three cars and a motorcycle was spread across the intersection, according to a release from the Tilton-Northfield Fire Department.

Valovanie said a Stewart's Ambulance was waiting in traffic and heard the call, and realized they were at the accident scene. Responders in this ambulance provided CPR to the adult male motorcyclist until Tilton-Northfield personnel arrived, and continued patient care, drove him to Concord-Hospital Franklin. The operator of the motorcycle died at the hospital.

Valovanie said there were five people involved in the collision, and one of the drivers was taken to Concord Hospital-Laconia with a minor head injury. Three other people were evaluated on scene by emergency responders from Sanbornton, but declined to go to the hospital.

Valovanie said they don't know yet what caused the accident.

“I am not sure how the crash occurred, but it appears that the motorcycle was stationary and the crash went into him,” Valovanie said.

Valovanie did not know if the motorcyclist was wearing a helmet. He said many details are “murky,” and deferred additional questions about the cause of the crash to Tilton Police.

“The investigation into this matter is ongoing, and no further details are available at this time,” a spokesperson for Tilton Police wrote in a press release, and added they were assisted by the Belknap County Accident Reconstruction Team.

Tilton Police did not comment further.

Tilton police and firefighters were assisted by Belmont, Franklin and Sanbornton police, State Police, the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, Stewart’s Ambulance Service, and ambulances from Franklin and Sanbornton.

Valovanie said the entire road was closed until 1:19 a.m. Friday, both directions, with a detour from Canon Bridge to Sanborn Road.

Anyone who witnessed the accident or has relevant information should call Det. Brian Murray at 603-286-8207, ext. 209, or email bmurray@tiltonpd.org.

State leaders encourage safety

Gov. Kelly Ayotte signed a proclamation on Friday declaring the month of May to be Motorcycle Awareness Month.

The Office of Highway Safety issued a statement on Friday, which Public Information Officer Tyler Dumont said was previously planned, and not related to the Tilton crash. He said it just shows how important it is for drivers and motorcyclists to be aware of their surroundings in the warmer months.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the national fatality rate for motorcyclists was 27 times higher than that of passenger cars in 2024. Between 2021 and 2025, 161 motorcycle riders — including 148 operators and 13 passengers — died in crashes in New Hampshire. Last year, there were 30 deaths; 27 operators and three passengers.

Speed and alcohol impairment are the leading contributors, according to NHTSA data.

The Office of Highway Safety encourages motorcyclists to ride sober, be aware of traffic laws and speed limits, and ride defensively and avoid distractions. Riders are encouraged to wear protective clothing.

State leaders also encourage motorists to avoid distractions, look twice before changing lanes, and give ample space to motorcyclists.

“Warmer weather brings increased traffic, road construction, and unpredictable hazards,” said New Hampshire Department of Safety Assistant Commissioner Eddie Edwards, according to the release. “Whether commuting or enjoying a weekend ride, simple choices like slowing down, staying visible, and never riding impaired can save lives.”