Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Jefferson County

State Police in Watertown are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred on Interstate 781 in the town of Pamelia, Jefferson County.

On March 27, 2024, at 12:44 p.m., two motorcycles were traveling eastbound on Interstate 781  being operated by Cordell W. Dunning, age 26, and Matheau R. Philibert, age 27 both soldiers from Fort Drum near the overpass of State Route 37, when Dunning lost control of his motorcycle after his front tire touched the rear tire of Philibert’s motorcycle, and struck a guide rail.  Dunning was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Philibert was not injured in the crash and tested negative at the scene for any alcohol/drug impairment.

The investigation is continuing.