Man killed on motorcycle was Highland EMT, firefighter

A Highland man died when his motorcycle veered off of the highway and struck a tree Thursday afternoon.

Madison County Coroner Nicholas Novacich’s office identified the man as Gavin L. Schlarmann, 21, an emergency medical technician and firefighter for the city of Highland.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Illinois State Police. Routine toxicology samples were collected, according to a release from the coroner’s office.

Illinois State Police Troop 8 responded to Illinois 160 near Cherokee Road south of Grant Fork after getting a report about the motorcycle accident. According to a release from state police, the accident occurred at approximately 2:03 p.m. and involved only the motorcycle.

Schlarmann was headed northbound on Illinois 160 driving a 2025 Kawasaki motorcycle, the release stated. For unknown reason, he ran off the roadway and struck a tree. He was pronounced dead in the emergency room of St. Joseph Hospital in Highland at 3:10 p.m., the coroner’s office said.

The Highland Police Department later identified Schlarmann as a first responder with a post on its Facebook page.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic passing of Gavin Schlarmann, a dedicated EMT and Firefighter with the City of Highland, who lost his life in a motorcycle crash on August 21, 2025,” it said. “Gavin served our community with courage, compassion, and selflessness. Whether on an ambulance call or at the firehouse, he was always the first to step up and the last to leave. His commitment to helping others and his kind spirit touched countless lives. Gavin always greeted you with a smile.

“The loss of someone so young and devoted to service is felt deeply by his family, friends, and his brothers and sisters in public safety. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Rest easy. We will carry on your mission of service and never forget your smile.”

Funeral arrangements are pending at Meridith Funeral Home.

This story was originally published August 22, 2025 at 2:27 PM.