Man Killed After Motorcycle Crashes Into Horse in Dutchess County

A 48-year-old man has died after the motorcycle he was riding collided with a horse on Route 9G in the Town of Clinton, in Dutchess County, NY.

Motorcycle Versus Horse Accident Claims Man's Life in Dutchess County, NY

A tragic accident has claimed the life of Craig M. Butler of Staatsburg, NY, after the motorcycle he was riding crashed into a horse early Tuesday morning, according to a press release issued by the New York State Police.

Police said that on Monday, October 6, 2025, at approximately 4:15 a.m. Troopers and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation from the State Police Rhinebeck barracks were dispatched to the area of State Route 9G and North Creek Road in the town of Clinton for a report of a motorcycle versus horse crash with injuries.

Upon arrival, first responders attempted life-saving measures, but sadly, Butler was pronounced deceased at the scene.

What Happened on Route 9G?

The NYSP said that its preliminary investigation revealed that Butler was operating a 2007 Chappy motorcycle northbound on State Route 9G when it struck a horse that had made itself onto the roadway.

The massive impact ejected Butler from the motorcycle, tragically killing him.

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Police didn't say how the animal got onto the road or who it belonged to, but did say that the horse also succumbed to its injuries as a result of the impact.

Route 9G was closed for approximately four hours on Tuesday while police attempted to reconstruct what happened.

This is an active police investigation, and when more information is available, we will update this article.