Double-fatal motorcycle crash in Pleasant Valley

The Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office reports the investigation into a single motorcycle, double-fatal crash which occurred on South Avenue in the Town of Pleasant Valley at approximately 7:30 pm on 8-29-15.
On the above date and time Sheriff’s Deputies responded to South Avenue near Plass Road for a report of an accident, and upon arrival learned there were two victims with life-threatening injuries. The victims were identified as Frederick A. Eberhard III (age 25 of Poughkeepsie), and Alysha Simpfenderfer (age 25 of Poughkeepsie). Mr. Eberhard was pronounced dead at the scene, and Ms. Simpfenderfer was pronounced dead at Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital.

Preliminary investigation has shown that a 2011 BMW motorcycle, being driven by Mr. Eberhard with Ms. Simpfenderfer as a passenger, was traveling on South Avenue near Plass Road when the operator lost control on a sharp curve. The motorcycle then left the roadway and struck a tree. Both Mr. Eberhard and Ms. Simpfenderfer were wearing helmets, and at this time unsafe speed is thought to be the primary contributing factor.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the Dutchess County Medical Examiner’s Office, the New York State Police, and the Town of Pleasant Valley Fire Department. The investigation is continuing by the Sheriff’s Office Crash Investigation Unit, and more information may be released as it becomes available.