Motorcycle Crash Claims Life of Ballston Spa Father Matthew Tenace on I-87 in Queensbury

Motorcycle Crash Claims Life of Ballston Spa Father Matthew Tenace on I-87 in Queensbury

Queensbury , NY – A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the communities of Ballston Spa and Queensbury following the untimely death of 48-year-old Matthew Tenace, who lost his life in a fatal motorcycle crash on the southbound lanes of the Northway (I-87) on the night of Wednesday, June 18.

According to the New York State Police, the crash occurred shortly after 9:00 p.m. near Exit 19 in Queensbury. Preliminary investigations indicate that Matthew was traveling southbound on his motorcycle when, for reasons still under investigation, he lost control of the bike and was ejected. Despite wearing a helmet and traveling with proper gear, he sustained critical injuries. Emergency crews rushed to the scene and attempted life-saving measures, but Matthew was tragically pronounced dead at the site of the crash.

Authorities are working to determine whether speed, road conditions, or other vehicles may have contributed to the incident. At this time, no other motorists are believed to have been involved. The stretch of highway was closed for several hours overnight as crash reconstruction teams examined the scene.

For those who knew him, Matthew Tenace was far more than a name in a tragic headline. A longtime resident of Ballston Spa and a well-known presence throughout Warren and Saratoga counties, Matthew was a devoted father, a loyal friend, and a passionate motorcycling enthusiast. Friends describe him as a man who lived life with purpose, finding peace on the open road and joy in the simple things — Sunday morning rides, cookouts with family, and evenings spent around a fire with people he loved.

“He was the kind of guy who would give you the shirt off his back,” said Jason Flanagan, a childhood friend and fellow rider. “Matt had a huge heart, and he lived life full throttle — not recklessly, but with real intention. He made you feel like every moment mattered.”

In recent years, Matthew had become especially focused on being present for his children, both of whom are in their teens. He often posted pictures with them on social media — attending school functions, fishing trips, and motorcycle shows. To his children, he was more than a father — he was a best friend, a steady hand, and a constant source of encouragement.

“He told us to chase what we love and not to waste time being afraid of life,” said one family member. “That’s what he did — he chased what he loved, and he made the people around him feel seen, heard, and cared for.”

The crash has left the local motorcycling community in mourning. Matthew was an active member of several riding groups in the Capital Region and had participated in numerous charity rides supporting causes ranging from veterans’ services to children’s hospitals. Several groups are now organizing a memorial ride in his honor, tentatively scheduled for next weekend. The ride will start in Ballston Spa and follow a route through Queensbury, ending near the crash site, where riders plan to lay flowers and raise a moment of silence in his memory.

“Matt was one of our own,” said Lisa Connors, president of a local riders’ club. “He brought people together. He was never about the ego — he was about the ride, the road, the camaraderie. We are all heartbroken.”

Beyond his passion for motorcycles, Matthew Tenace was known for his work as a skilled tradesman, having worked in construction and carpentry for over two decades. Former clients and coworkers alike have spoken out about his honesty, work ethic, and attention to detail. One former colleague noted, “He didn’t just build things — he put love into everything he touched. His hands were strong, but his spirit was stronger.”

As the investigation into the crash continues, the family is asking for privacy as they process the devastating loss. A public memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, loved ones are gathering at his family’s Ballston Spa home, remembering a man who lived fearlessly, loved deeply, and left far too soon.

Matthew Tenace is survived by his two children, his parents, siblings, and a wide circle of friends and extended family who now face life without his steady, loving presence.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support his children’s future and help cover memorial expenses. The page has already drawn heartfelt messages from dozens of community members, some of whom never met him but were touched by his story and the love he inspired.

As the sun sets over the Northway tonight, the memory of Matthew Tenace lingers not just on the pavement, but in the hearts of those he rode with, laughed with, and loved — a man whose final journey came too soon, but whose legacy will ride on.

In loving memory of Matthew Tenace — a father, a rider, and a friend to all.