Man Killed in Altoona E-Bike Crash Identified

Coroner says victim was 67-year-old Timothy Reffner

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Blair County Coroner Ray Benton has identified 67-year-old Timothy Reffner, believed to be from the Altoona area, as the victim of a fatal crash involving an e-bike that occurred around 4:00 AM on Saturday near 6th Avenue and 1st Street in Altoona. Reffner was struck by a vehicle and later passed away from his injuries at UPMC Altoona. An autopsy is scheduled and the investigation into the crash remains ongoing.

Why it matters

E-bike usage has been rising in recent years, but safety concerns remain as riders navigate roads alongside traditional vehicles. This incident highlights the need for improved infrastructure and safety measures to protect vulnerable e-bike riders, especially in urban areas.

The details

According to the coroner, 67-year-old Timothy Reffner was riding an e-bike when he was struck by a vehicle around 4:00 AM on Saturday near the intersection of 6th Avenue and 1st Street in Altoona. Reffner was transported to UPMC Altoona hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. An autopsy is scheduled for tomorrow as the investigation into the crash continues.

  • The fatal crash occurred around 4:00 AM on Saturday, March 8, 2026.
  • An autopsy is scheduled for tomorrow, March 10, 2026.

The players

Ray Benton

The Blair County Coroner who identified the victim.

Timothy Reffner

A 67-year-old man believed to be from the Altoona area who was killed while riding an e-bike.

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The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for improved safety measures and infrastructure to protect e-bike riders, who are increasingly sharing the roads with traditional vehicles. As e-bike usage continues to rise, local authorities will need to prioritize rider safety to prevent similar fatal crashes in the future.