Harley Davidson rider killed after trying to pass between two semi trucks on New York interstate

The New York State Police (NYSP) are investigating a fatal crash involving a motorcycle and two commercial vehicles that occurred in LaFayette over the weekend.

The crash occurred at 7:38 a.m. on July 26, 2025, on northbound I-81 in LaFayette, New York.

Troopers say that 42 year old New York resident Sean M. Ayers was operating a 2001 Peterbilt tractor-trailer in the driving lane when a truck tire blowout occurred. Ayers slowed while looking for a safe place to pull off of I-81.

As Ayers slowed, Iowa-based truck driver Barbara L. Armstrong, 66, was driving a 2024 Peterbilt tractor-trailer in the passing lane, overtaking Ayers.

From NYSP:

“As the two tractor-trailers occupied both lanes, a 2008 Harley Davidson motorcycle operated by Austin E. Leonard, age 28, of LaFayette, New York, approached from behind and attempted to pass between the two trucks. After passing the trucks, Leonard lost control of the motorcycle, struck the guide rail along the west shoulder, and was ejected.“

Leonard was transported to a hospital in Syracuse in critical condition. He later died from his injuries.

The crash remains under investigation, and more details may be released when they are available.