Shelburne — A man from Berlin who vanished after a late-night motorcycle crash on the Fourth of July was found dead Thursday evening on Route 2, authorities said.
New Hampshire State Police responded after members of the Berlin Police Department sought help locating Wesley Grondin, 41, on July 9. A few hours after being reported missing, investigators located Grondin and the motorcycle he had been riding, according to a State Police statement.
What investigators say happened
State Police determined that the crash occurred just before midnight on Saturday, July 4. The motorcycle had been traveling westbound on Route 2 when it crossed into the opposing lane, struck a post and came to rest in the woods. Investigators do not believe another vehicle or person was involved in the collision.
| Key detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Missing since | Late night, Saturday, July 4 |
| Located | Thursday evening, July 9, on Route 2 in Shelburne |
| Victim | Wesley Grondin, 41, of Berlin |
| Crash details | Westbound motorcycle crossed into opposing lane, hit a post, ended in woods; no other vehicle believed involved |
Local impact and context
The discovery brought an end to a multi-day search that began on a holiday weekend and involved coordination between the Berlin Police Department and New Hampshire State Police. Accidents on rural stretches of highway like Route 2 can take longer to detect, particularly when a vehicle leaves the roadway and comes to rest off the traveled surface.
Family members and residents in the Berlin area were notified through law-enforcement channels; the State Police are leading the active investigation into the crash. No further details were released about possible contributing factors such as speed, impairment or mechanical failure.
- Authorities say no other vehicle appears to have been involved.
- The crash occurred just before midnight on July 4; Grondin was found July 9.
- State Police and Berlin officers worked together to locate him.
Investigators have not released an official cause of death or the results of any toxicology testing. The State Police will handle follow-up inquiries and any statements to the public.
For people traveling on state highways, especially on long rural stretches, law-enforcement officials advise remaining cautious after nightfall and to report any concerns about missing motorists to local police. Those with information about this case can contact the New Hampshire State Police for the ongoing investigation.
Officials did not provide details on whether charges or citations will follow; the investigation remains open.
Correction note: This report is based on official details released by law-enforcement agencies. Additional information will be added as authorities make it available.
