Walnut Creek Township, OH – A tragic accident has claimed the life of a young woman, Maria H. Kempf, and left a community heartbroken after a fatal collision between a motor vehicle and an electric bicycle early Tuesday morning. According to Holmes County Sheriff Tim Zimmerly, deputies are actively investigating the incident, which occurred at approximately 5:47 a.m. on State Route 39, just east of County Road 135 in Walnut Creek Township.
The victim, Maria H. Kempf, age 27, of Fresno, Ohio, was operating a Biktrix electric bicycle when the crash occurred. Authorities report that Maria was traveling westbound on the berm of State Route 39 when she briefly stopped and attempted to make a left-hand turn into the driveway of Walnut Creek Cheese’s main office. As she initiated the turn, her bicycle entered the travel lane and was struck on the passenger side by a 2015 GMC Denali, also traveling westbound.
The GMC Denali, driven by Wilbur J. Miller, age 27, of Millersburg, Ohio, was reportedly traveling in the same direction and struck Maria during her turning maneuver. Miller was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and did not report any injuries. Maria H. Kempf was wearing a reflective vest and had an operable flashing rear light, indicating that she had taken proper safety precautions to remain visible in the early morning hours.
Despite the quick arrival of East Holmes Fire and EMS, Maria H. Kempf was tragically pronounced dead at the scene by EMS and Holmes County Coroner Dr. Leon Miller. Her untimely death has deeply shaken the local community, especially those in the close-knit area surrounding Walnut Creek and Fresno, who knew her as a gentle, hardworking, and faith-driven woman.
Ongoing Investigation
The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, which remains active and ongoing. Authorities are reviewing all available evidence, including roadway conditions, witness statements, and any potential surveillance footage from nearby buildings. Investigators have not yet announced whether charges will be filed.
Sheriff Zimmerly noted that although Maria H. Kempf had taken visibility precautions, this incident underscores the vulnerability of cyclists on rural roadways, especially in areas shared with early morning traffic.
Community Remembers Maria H. Kempf
The loss of Maria H. Kempf has devastated her family, friends, and all who knew her. A native of Fresno, Ohio, Maria was known for her kindness, work ethic, and love of the outdoors. She had recently begun working in the Walnut Creek area and regularly rode her electric bicycle to work in the peaceful morning hours.
“She was a light in the lives of everyone she met,” shared a family friend. “Maria brought joy, calm, and compassion wherever she went. Her passing has left a void we can’t fill.”
In tribute, friends and neighbors have started placing flowers, candles, and handwritten notes near the entrance to Walnut Creek Cheese, where Maria H. Kempf was headed at the time of the crash. A community vigil is being planned to honor her life and the legacy she leaves behind.
Agencies Assisting at the Scene
- East Holmes Fire and EMS
- Holmes County Coroner’s Office
- Holmes County Sheriff’s Office
Officials are asking that anyone who witnessed the crash or who may have information that could assist in the investigation to contact the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office as soon as possible.
Safety Reminders and Reflection
As the popularity of electric bicycles continues to grow in rural Ohio, the tragic death of Maria H. Kempf has renewed calls for greater awareness and mutual responsibility among drivers and cyclists. Authorities are urging motorists to be especially cautious when driving in areas frequented by cyclists and to always be vigilant—particularly in early morning or low-light conditions.
Maria’s death is a tragic reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of sharing the road with care and respect.
Maria H. Kempf’s funeral arrangements will be announced by her family in the coming days. As the community grieves this heartbreaking loss, many will remember Maria not only for how she died, but for how she lived—with grace, kindness, and quiet strength. May she rest in eternal peace.
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