By Jennifer Smola
The Columbus Dispatch
NEWARK, Ohio — Newark Fire Chief Patrick Connor and his wife are recovering after they were injured in a motorcycle crash Sunday.
Connor and his wife, Kelly Connor, were riding their motorcycle just before 7:30 Sunday evening in the 10000 block of Eden Church Road NE when the crash occurred.
The couple appeared to have swerved due to a deer in the roadway, said Sgt. Wes Stought, of the Granville post of the State Highway Patrol. It’s not clear if the motorcycle actually struck a deer or just lost control while trying to avoid it, Stought said.
There were signs of breaking in the middle of the lane as the bike traveled westbound, then the bike tipped over on its side and slid off the left side of the road, Stought said.
Connor, 43, was transported by helicopter to Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center. Mrs. Connor, 44, was originally transported to Licking Memorial Hospital, but was later taken to OSU. Both were wearing helmets at the time of the crash, Stought said.
Newark Assistant Chief Nick Simmons said the couple remained in the hospital as of late Monday afternoon, but their injuries are non-life-threatening.
Connor’s condition wasn’t available Monday, but Mrs. Connor was listed in fair condition late Monday afternoon.
“I don’t imagine they’re going to be there too long,” Simmons said. “We thank everybody for their concern and support.”
Connor has more than 25 years of service with the Newark Division of Fire and EMS, and has served as chief for about a year and a half.
Some Newark Fire personnel were at the hospital to see the chief Sunday night, Simmons said.
“As soon as they’re released we’re going to be ready to help them in any way they need help,” he said.
Copyright 2016 The Columbus Dispatch