PUBLISHED 2:00 am 07/09/2024

OSHP investigates Two Vehicle Fatal Motorcycle Crash

Bethlehem Township – The Canton Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is currently investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash involving a motorcycle and passenger car. The crash occurred on July 7th, 2024 at approximately 3:15PM. The crash occurred on State Route 21 near Milepost 2 in Bethlehem Township, Stark County.

A 2011 Honda CR-V operated by Wanda F. Solon, 81 years old of Navarre, Ohio. The Honda was traveling northbound State Route 21.

A 2015 Harley Davidson Motorcycle operated by Rodney W. Kandel, 47 years old of Millersburg, Ohio. The Motorcycle was traveling southbound on State Route 21. A 48-year-old, female rider was seated behind Mr. Kandel.

The Honda traveled left of center striking the Harley Davidson head on. The Honda continued off the left side of the roadway. The Harley Davidson came to rest in the northbound lane of travel.

Erie Valley EMS transported Rodney Kandel and the female passenger to Aultman Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Mr. Kandel was later life-flighted to Summa Health Systems (Akron City Hospital). The female passenger was later life-flighted to the Cleveland Clinic (Akron General Hospital)

Wanda Solon did not report any injuries.

Rodney Kandel was pronounced deceased by the Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office on July 8th, 2024.

The crash remains under investigation. Alcohol and drug use are not suspected to be factors in this crash. Neither Rodney Kandel nor the female passenger were wearing any protective equipment at the time of the crash.