According to the Virginia State Police, the crash occurred at approximately 6:40 p.m. on Shenandoah Mountain Drive (Va. 250) near Deerfield Valley Road.

Reese was driving a 2010 Kawasaki VN1700 motorcycle westbound when the bike lost control in a curve and ran off the right side of the road. Reese, 30, of Raphine, died at the scene. Police said he was wearing a helmet, and the crash remains under investigation.

Staunton Fire-Rescue announced Reese’s death Thursday morning, writing in a Facebook post that it was with “profound sadness” the department shared the news. Reese had served with Staunton Fire-Rescue since December 2024, after previously working for Augusta County Fire-Rescue and volunteering with the Raphine Volunteer Fire Department.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends,” the post read. “He will be missed by many.”

The Buena Vista Fire Department also expressed condolences in a Facebook post: “Please keep the family of Zack Reese in your prayers as they navigate his tragic loss. Sending our heartfelt condolences to Mandi, Will, Steve, and Zack’s brother, sisters, and children, as well as his fire/rescue family from all of us at BVFD.”

The Raphine Volunteer Fire Company, where Reese also served, wrote: “Our hearts are shattered for the loss of one of our own!”

Reese was the son of Mandi Hartless McComas and Steve Reese. A celebration of life will be held Thursday at the Raphine Christian Church.