Stacey A. Perez Sr. Obituary, Cleveland, Ohio, Death: 55-Year-Old Motorcyclist Killed in Early-Morning I-90 Crash

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Stacey A. Perez Sr., 55, of South Euclid, Ohio, has died following a fatal motorcycle crash on Interstate 90 in the Cleveland-area community of Bratenahl early Sunday morning, August 30, 2026. The collision occurred near the Eddy Road exit shortly after 1 a.m., according to police.

Bratenahl police said officers responded to I-90 east near Eddy Road after receiving a report of a serious crash involving a motorcycle and a car. Perez was found at the scene and was pronounced dead. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner identified him as Stacey Alan Perez Sr., 55, a South Euclid resident.

Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the collision, including whether Perez’s motorcycle was struck from behind before the crash. Police said the driver of the car, identified as 31-year-old Leon Croff Jr. of Cleveland, initially fled the scene. Officers located Croff several hours later and took him into custody.

Croff pleaded not guilty during an arraignment in Cleveland Municipal Court on August 31. A judge ordered him held on a $1 million bond. Authorities said anticipated charges include aggravated vehicular homicide, stopping after an accident and operating a vehicle under the influence.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to establish the exact sequence of events leading to the deadly collision. Officials have not released a complete account of what happened immediately before the motorcycle and vehicle came into contact.

Perez’s death has left family, friends and members of the community mourning a sudden loss. At 55, his life was cut short in a crash that investigators are still working to understand.

As the legal and investigative processes continue, loved ones are left to remember Perez and the life he shared with those around him. Condolences are extended to his family, friends and everyone affected by his passing.

Croff remains entitled to the presumption of innocence unless and until proven guilty in court.