Rhode Island native killed, girlfriend seriously injured, after being ejected in motorcycle crash

A Rhode Island native is being remembered after he was killed over the weekend.

Authorities are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred on Saturday, at approximately 4:30 p.m. at the intersection of Stone Hill Road and Roode Road in Griswold, Connecticut.

According to the Connecticut State Police, a motorcycle operated by Nathan Timothy Musto, 35, of Voluntown, collided with the right side of a pickup truck at the intersection. Both Musto and his passenger, his 35-year-old girlfriend from Voluntown, were ejected from the motorcycle and came to rest in the center of the intersection.

Musto was transported by ambulance to Plainfield Backus Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The female passenger sustained serious injuries and was also taken to the same hospital for treatment. The driver of the pickup truck, identified as 58-year-old Edward Rainville of Griswold, was not injured and declined medical attention at the scene.

Musto’s girlfriend posted a touching tribute to Musto.

“With a heavy heart, I share that I lost the love of my life, Nathan, in a tragic motorcycle accident.

“I was on the bike with him and was seriously injured, but I survived. He didn’t and that is something my heart is struggling to understand.

“Nathan was more than just my boyfriend he changed me. Because of him, I know what love truly is. He brought so much meaning into my life, and I will carry that love with me forever.

“As hard as it is, I know he would want me to keep going to be here, to stay strong, and to be present for the children, who mean so much to both of us.

“My heart goes out to everyone affected by this tragedy. This was a terrible accident, and I hold compassion for all involved.

“Please keep Nathan, his stepchildren, and all of us who loved him in your thoughts and prayers as we try to navigate this unimaginable loss.”

The Middle of Nowhere Diner in Exter, Rhode Island announced that they closed on Monday to mourn Musto.

“Due to an unfortunate emergency, we will be closed on Monday April 6th, 2026. It is with a heavy heart that we must announce the passing of our dear Nate Musto. A tragic accident took him from us too soon, our hearts are full with sadness for Nate and his entire family. He was, and will always be, such a big part of our lives, his memory will live with us always. We will miss you Nate.”

A GoFundMe fundraiser for Musto’s girlfriend and stepchildren has raised $1,000 as of this writing.

Troopers from Connecticut State Police Troop E in Montville responded to the scene and are actively investigating the crash.