Police urge drivers to use caution after fatal motorcycle crash in Laurel

(BROOKVILLE, Ind.) – Franklin County deputies are urging drivers to be cautious and vigilant after another deadly crash. 

Police say 69-year-old Bonnie Lapham was operating a motorcycle on State Road 121 in Laurel when a vehicle pulled out in front of her on Saturday. 

Lapham was not wearing a helmet and was pronounced dead at the scene, investigators said. 

Chief Deputy Greg Mehlbauer said 29 people have been killed in crashes on county roads in Franklin County since 2020. 

Those crashes have been caused by multiple factors, including driving left of center, speeding, failure to yield, alcohol or drug impairment, distracted driving, following too closely, and animals in the roadway.

The sheriff’s office is urging community members to talk with their loved ones about safe driving habits and remaining alert behind the wheel.

“Every decision made while operating a vehicle can make the difference between life and death,” Mehlbauer said.