Authorities said the motorcyclist was found dead in the eastbound lanes shortly before 5:30 a.m., and the Port Authority reopened the left lane to trucks to ease congestion.
WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, NY - October 22, 2026
A motorcyclist was killed in a crash on the Trans Manhattan Expressway in Washington Heights early Thursday, according to ABC7 New York. The crash disrupted the morning commute, closing key approaches to the George Washington Bridge and pushing traffic onto local streets.
Key Facts
- Date: Thursday, October 22, 2026, just before 5:30 a.m.
- Location: Trans Manhattan Expressway, Washington Heights, New York (eastbound lanes)
- Type of crash: Fatal motorcycle crash
- Vehicles involved: One motorcycle
- Injuries / fatalities: One fatality
- Responding agencies: Port Authority
- Reported by: ABC7 New York
Crash Overview
Authorities said the motorcyclist was found dead in the eastbound lanes shortly before 5:30 a.m. ABC7 New York reported that the scene caused major disruptions during the Thursday morning commute.
To reduce backups, the Port Authority allowed trucks and tractor-trailers to use the left lane of the Trans Manhattan Expressway again. Other vehicles remained diverted to local streets while the investigation continued.
The closure caused significant delays for drivers traveling from New Jersey into New York during the morning rush. Officials have not yet named the motorcyclist, and few other details have been reported.
Traffic Impact
Key approaches to the George Washington Bridge were shut down, and traffic was forced onto local streets. Fort Lee residents were warned that inbound restrictions could last as long as six hours while investigators worked the scene.
If You Were Involved
If you were involved in a crash, consider these general steps:
- Seek medical attention even if you feel fine.
- Document the scene with photos or video if it is safe to do so.
- Exchange information with the other drivers and note any witnesses.
- Request the official crash report from the law enforcement agency that responded.
- Notify your insurer as soon as reasonably possible.
- Consider speaking with a qualified attorney if you were injured or face significant losses.