Alex Mechachonis, 17, was remembered as a skilled rider and hardworking young man.
BROOKFIELD, Mass. — A 17-year-old motocross rider from Granville died after crashing during practice at a Brookfield track earlier this week, according to reports from the New England motocross community.
Alex Mechachonis had been racing for years and had already won three championships before turning 18. His death drew grief across western Massachusetts, where riders, track workers and racing families described him as a talented competitor with a steady work ethic and strong character.
The New England Sports Committee, known as NESC, said Thursday that Mechachonis died after a crash at a practice track. The accident did not happen at The Wick 338 in Southwick, where Mechachonis had recently begun helping crews prepare for events. Details about the exact sequence of the crash have not been released publicly.
Rick Johnson, a member of The Wick 338 track family, said Mechachonis had made a strong impression in the short time he worked there. Johnson described him as “a wonderful young man,” adding that he was conscientious, hardworking, well-spoken and curious.
People in the motocross community said Mechachonis was wearing proper riding gear, including a helmet, chest protection and boots. They also said track conditions were fine and that no outside influence had been reported. Officials have not released a formal investigative report.
The crash has hit the local racing scene hard. Mechachonis was known not only for his results on the track, but also for the way he carried himself around older riders and track staff. Community members said his death has been felt across NESC events and at tracks around New England.
As of Saturday, no public schedule for services or official findings on the crash had been announced in the reports reviewed. The motocross community continued to share tributes while waiting for more information.
Author note: Last updated May 2, 2026.