DPW Had Repaired Potholes In Area Where Deputy Was Killed In Motorcycle Accident

The Marion County Sheriff’s Department is dealing with the death of one of its own.

Deputy Eric Stofer, 35, was killed, Sunday evening, after he lost control of his motorcycle when it hit a pothole in the 8900 block of Acton Road.

Stofer was off duty at the time of the crash, driving a friend’s motorcycle, but did have a license to operate.

He was not wearing a helmet when he hit the pothole and lost control.  Authorities say neither speed nor alcohol caused the accident.

The Department of Public Works says it received two complaints of potholes in the area, in December and January.  DPW said, "we’ve filled potholes in the area, which may or may not include the specific pothole in question. It’s likely we filled it early in the year and it already needs to be re-patched.  This is the problem with pothole patching."

Crews were dispatched to fill them after the accident and the department says engineers are analyzing the road to see if it needs to upgrade the priority of the area for long term repairs.

DPW identified $24 million in damages caused by the winter weather and is requesting $8 million from the city for emergency repairs.

The Public Works Committee tabled an initial request for the money and will reconsider an amended proposal next month.

DPW says the section where Stofer was killed is not currently on either the list of emergency repairs or emergency thoroughfare needs.