Orion Onigkeit, 18, Local Cheyenne Resident, Dies in Fatal Motorcycle Crash: Tragedy Strikes as Young Motorcyclist Collides with Building Following High-Speed Ride – Obituary, Death”
Orion Onigkeit, an 18-year-old motorcyclist from Cheyenne, Wyoming, tragically lost his life on September 15, 2024, following a high-speed crash that ended in a collision with a building on East Lincolnway. The tragic incident, which occurred around 11:22 p.m., has left his family, friends, and the broader community in mourning as they grapple with the sudden loss of a young life. Just 18 days after a similar accident claimed the life of another young biker, this second fatal collision has reignited concerns over road safety and the dangers of speeding, particularly for motorcyclists.
Orion, a local native of Cheyenne, was known for his love of adventure, his infectious energy, and his passion for motorcycles. He had recently graduated from Cheyenne Central High School in May 2024, and was looking forward to starting the next chapter of his life. With a bright future ahead of him, his tragic passing has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and those who knew him in the community. His untimely death serves as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in high-speed motorcycling and the fragility of life.
Born on October 15, 2005, Orion grew up in Cheyenne, where he was a well-loved member of the community. He was the youngest of three siblings and was raised by his parents, Sarah and Michael Onigkeit, who supported his love for motorcycles from a young age. Orion had always been fascinated by the thrill of riding, and after years of saving, he finally bought his first motorcycle just months before his accident. His parents, although nervous about his newfound passion, encouraged him to ride safely and always wear protective gear.
In high school, Orion was known for his outgoing personality and his ability to make friends easily. His classmates often described him as someone who could light up a room with his smile and sense of humor. Orion was involved in several extracurricular activities, including soccer and track, where his competitive nature and determination shone through. However, his true passion lay in motorcycles, and he spent much of his free time learning about bike mechanics, attending local motorbike events, and honing his riding skills.
On the night of September 15, 2024, Orion was riding eastbound on East Lincolnway, accompanied by 23-year-old David Rutherford, another motorcyclist, when tragedy struck. According to the Wyoming Highway Patrol’s investigation, the pair had been seen riding at high speeds moments before the crash. As Orion approached a sharp left-hand curve near Nationway, he lost control of his motorcycle and collided with a nearby building. The impact of the collision caused a fire to break out, and Cheyenne Fire Rescue was dispatched to the scene to contain the blaze.
Despite wearing a helmet, the protective gear was not enough to prevent the fatal consequences of the crash. Emergency responders arrived on the scene quickly, but Orion was pronounced dead shortly after their arrival. His passing marked the second fatal motorcycle accident in Cheyenne within just three weeks, amplifying concerns about road safety and the importance of adhering to speed limits.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol’s preliminary report indicated that speed was likely a significant contributing factor in the crash. Witnesses at the scene reported seeing Orion and David Rutherford riding their motorcycles at excessive speeds in the moments leading up to the collision. While Rutherford did not sustain any injuries, he was cited for negligent motorcycling operation and for not having the necessary endorsement for his motorcycle. The crash, coupled with Rutherford’s citation, has raised questions about the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and the importance of proper motorcycle training and licensing.
For Orion’s family, the loss of their youngest son has been overwhelming. His mother, Sarah, spoke through tears about the joy that Orion brought to their family and how devastated they are by his sudden death. “He was so full of life,” she said. “Orion had such big dreams, and it’s heartbreaking to know that he won’t get to live them out. We’re trying to hold onto the memories of the good times we had with him, but it’s hard to accept that he’s gone.” Michael, Orion’s father, echoed these sentiments, adding, “He was always our little daredevil, but we always thought he’d be safe. He was a responsible kid. This just doesn’t feel real.”
Orion’s siblings, his older brother Josh and sister Emily, are also grieving the loss of their little brother. Josh, who was particularly close with Orion, shared memories of their time spent together working on motorcycles and how much Orion loved the sense of freedom that riding brought him. “We’d spend hours talking about bikes, working on them, and planning rides,” Josh said. “He was obsessed with it, but he was also careful. I never thought something like this would happen to him. He had so much potential.”
As word of Orion’s death spread through the community, tributes began pouring in from friends, classmates, and fellow riders. Many took to social media to share their memories of Orion and express their shock at his passing. “Orion was one of the coolest people I’ve ever met,” wrote one classmate. “He was always there to lift you up, and he had such a bright future ahead of him. This doesn’t seem real. Rest in peace, buddy.” Another friend posted, “It’s heartbreaking to lose someone so young. Orion was such a great guy, and he had so much to offer. My thoughts are with his family.”
The loss of Orion has also reignited discussions about road safety and the dangers of high-speed motorcycling, particularly for young riders. Local authorities have expressed their condolences to Orion’s family while emphasizing the importance of adhering to speed limits and using caution when riding. “This is a tragedy that could have been avoided,” said one local law enforcement official. “We urge all riders, especially young ones, to respect the speed limits and be mindful of the risks associated with high-speed riding. Our hearts go out to Orion’s family, and we want to prevent this from happening again.”
Orion’s family, though devastated by the loss, is using their grief to raise awareness about road safety and the importance of safe riding practices. In a statement released through a family spokesperson, they expressed their desire to honor Orion’s memory by advocating for better motorcycle safety education and stricter enforcement of speed regulations. “We don’t want any other family to go through what we’re going through,” the statement read. “Orion was a wonderful son, brother, and friend, and his life was cut short far too soon. We hope that by sharing his story, we can help prevent future accidents and save lives.”
As the community continues to mourn Orion’s passing, plans for a memorial service are underway. His family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support they’ve received and have asked for privacy as they navigate this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, they have requested donations be made to local organizations that promote road safety and motorcycle education, causes that are now close to their hearts in light of Orion’s tragic death.
The death of Orion Onigkeit has left a lasting impact on the Cheyenne community, serving as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safe driving practices. Though he is no longer with them, Orion’s family and friends are determined to keep his memory alive through their efforts to raise awareness and improve road safety for all.
Rest in peace, Orion Onigkeit. Your adventurous spirit, bright smile, and love for life will never be forgotten. You were taken too soon, but your memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.
