GILLETTE, Wyo. — June 19, 2025 — A devastating tragedy has rocked the tight-knit community of Gillette as two well-known and beloved residents, Ricky Lynch, 74, and Steve Layman, 68, lost their lives in a horrific highway accident on Wednesday morning.
The fatal crash occurred just outside Gillette along a stretch of highway that local residents often travel for both work and recreation. According to preliminary reports from the Wyoming Highway Patrol, Lynch and Layman were each riding their motorcycles when, without warning, a work truck traveling in the opposite direction veered across the centerline, colliding head-on with the two men.
Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene, but despite the rapid response, both Lynch and Layman were pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of their injuries. The driver of the truck was reportedly injured but survived the crash and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the driver or any possible causes for the truck crossing into the wrong lane, though investigators are actively examining whether speed, distraction, fatigue, or mechanical failure may have been factors.
A Community in Mourning
The deaths of Lynch and Layman have sent waves of grief through Gillette, where both men were known for their deep roots, community involvement, and friendly spirits.
Ricky Lynch, a retired electrician and U.S. Navy veteran, was remembered by friends and neighbors as a generous, thoughtful man who could always be counted on to lend a hand — whether fixing a neighbor’s wiring or volunteering at veterans’ events. A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, he often rode the open roads of Wyoming with friends, embracing the freedom of the ride.
Steve Layman, a former Campbell County School District employee and longtime youth sports coach, was equally revered. He mentored generations of local students and athletes, and even in retirement, continued to serve as a fixture at local ballgames and school functions. Known for his quick wit and easy laughter, Layman brought joy to every room he entered and was especially proud of his children and grandchildren, who remain in the Gillette area.
“These men weren’t just names or faces — they were the kind of people who made our town better,” said one grieving neighbor. “They had integrity, they had heart, and they showed up for people. That’s who they were.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Wyoming Highway Patrol and Campbell County Sheriff’s Office are jointly investigating the crash. While foul play is not suspected at this time, officials say they are conducting a full review of the truck driver’s condition and circumstances leading up to the collision. Toxicology tests have been administered, and dash camera footage from nearby traffic may be reviewed as part of the probe.
No citations or charges have been announced as of Thursday, but law enforcement officials indicated more information may be available once the investigation concludes.
Road Safety and Grief
This tragedy has renewed calls in Campbell County for improved highway safety, particularly on stretches of road frequently used by motorcycles and commercial vehicles. Community members and fellow motorcyclists gathered Wednesday evening at a local park for a candlelight vigil, where tearful tributes were shared and engines revved in a final salute.
“We’ve lost two brothers on the road today,” said one participant. “Let this be a reminder — to slow down, to pay attention, and to never take the people you love for granted.”
Funeral arrangements for Lynch and Layman are being coordinated by local families and will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, friends and neighbors are rallying around the grieving families with meal trains, donations, and countless messages of love and support.
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