Richard Dowding, 73, and William McCoy, 62, Killed in Tragic Multi-Vehicle Crash on U.S. 6 in Jackson Township, Indiana — Harley Riders Struck Head-On After Chain-Reaction Collision Involving Audi and Nissan SUV
Jackson Township, Indiana — A peaceful Friday afternoon turned into a scene of tragedy and heartbreak when a multi-vehicle collision on U.S. Route 6 claimed the lives of two beloved motorcyclists. Richard Dowding, 73, and William McCoy, 62, both longtime residents of Portage, Indiana, were pronounced dead at the scene of a violent four-vehicle crash that unfolded at the intersection of U.S. 6 and White Thorne Lane just before 2 p.m. on May 30, 2025.
The two men, deeply embedded in the region’s motorcycle community, were riding together when a catastrophic sequence of events ended their lives instantly. Both were traveling westbound on their Harley-Davidson motorcycles—a 2017 model and a 2002 model—when they were struck head-on by a vehicle that had been forced into oncoming traffic after being rear-ended.
Chain Reaction: The Mechanics of a Catastrophe
According to Sgt. Ben McFalls of the Porter County Sheriff’s Office, the crash began when a 2023 Audi Q7P, traveling eastbound, signaled to make a left turn onto White Thorne Lane. As it slowed down to complete the maneuver, the driver of a 2017 Nissan Rogue, who was following closely behind, failed to reduce speed and slammed into the Audi’s rear with substantial force.
The sheer impact of the collision caused the Audi to be shoved across the centerline into the westbound lane—directly into the path of the two motorcyclists. Dowding and McCoy, who had no time to react, were struck head-on by the Audi. Their motorcycles crumpled upon impact, launching the riders several feet from the point of collision. First responders from the Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Department and Porter County EMS rushed to the scene, but both men succumbed to their injuries at the site.
The Aftermath: Emergency Response and Investigation
The Porter County Sheriff’s Department immediately initiated a full-scale investigation into the crash. Traffic was shut down in both directions on U.S. 6 for over four hours as crash reconstruction experts worked meticulously to piece together the events. Drones were deployed to document the wreckage, and data from vehicle event recorders is expected to be reviewed.
As of the latest update, no criminal charges have been filed, but the incident remains under active investigation. Toxicology screens are pending for all drivers involved, which is standard procedure in fatal crashes. The driver of the Nissan Rogue was treated at the scene for minor injuries, while the Audi’s occupants were taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Who Were Richard Dowding and William McCoy?
Friends describe Richard Dowding and William McCoy as more than just motorcycle enthusiasts—they were brothers in spirit, bonded by a shared love for the open road and the deep friendships found within Indiana’s close-knit biker community. Dowding, a retired steelworker and Navy veteran, was known for his generosity and mechanical skills. McCoy, a former electrician, often led charity rides and community events.
Both men were experienced riders with decades of experience, always advocating for road safety and proper gear. They had participated in dozens of rides across the Midwest and were often seen leading convoys in veterans’ parades and fundraisers for children’s hospitals. Their tragic passing has not only devastated their families but also left a void in a community that looked up to them.
Community Response: A Town in Mourning
The news of their deaths spread rapidly throughout Portage and neighboring towns. Memorials of flowers, candles, and motorcycle helmets began appearing near the crash site by nightfall. Local riding clubs, including the Portage Thunder Riders and the Indiana Vets on Wheels, have organized a candlelight ride to honor the men’s memory.
Portage Mayor Sue Lynch issued a statement expressing deep sorrow:
“We mourn the heartbreaking loss of Richard and William, two pillars of our community whose lives embodied service, kindness, and the open road. Our hearts are with their families during this unimaginably difficult time.”
Family members, overwhelmed by grief, have shared their intention to celebrate the lives of Dowding and McCoy in separate but similarly themed ceremonies—both centered around motorcycles, flags, and music, just the way they would have wanted.
A Stark Reminder of Roadway Dangers
While motorcycle culture celebrates freedom and adventure, it is also perilously vulnerable to the actions of other motorists. This crash highlights the life-altering consequences that can stem from a moment’s inattention. Even a routine slowdown for a turn can trigger a domino effect when drivers fail to maintain proper distance or react appropriately to changing traffic conditions.
Indiana state records indicate that motorcycle fatalities have risen in recent years, often involving interactions between bikes and passenger vehicles. In 2024 alone, Indiana recorded over 140 motorcycle-related deaths, many of which occurred in rural or semi-rural intersections much like the one in Jackson Township.
The Legal and Investigative Road Ahead
At this time, the Porter County Sheriff’s Department has not released the identities of the drivers involved in the Audi and Nissan. Investigators are looking into whether distracted driving, mechanical failure, or speed played any role. Surveillance footage from nearby traffic cameras and dash cams is also being reviewed.
Attorneys representing the Dowding and McCoy families have indicated they are closely monitoring the investigation and will explore legal avenues if negligence is proven. A civil suit is possible, depending on findings from the crash reconstruction report.
Final Thoughts
The deaths of Richard Dowding and William McCoy are more than just entries in a traffic report—they are human stories of loss, brotherhood, and the cruel unpredictability of life. Their passing has shaken not just their families, but an entire community that admired their spirit and embraced their camaraderie.
As funeral preparations are made and memorial rides are planned, one thing remains certain: their legacy will live on in the hearts of the riders and residents they touched. Flags will fly low, engines will roar in tribute, and the roads they once rode will never feel quite the same again.
Leave a Reply