On Sept 4, 2008, Danny and Barbara Sparks, long time members of Ocean Thunder HOG and riders in the Polar Bear Grand Tour, were returning home from the Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary Celebration in Milwaukee when the trailer they were towing with their motorcycle went out of control and caused them to take a hard spill. Barbara was killed instantly. Danny remains in UPMC Presbyterian with major injuries. He has lost one leg and has other serious injuries as well. He is currently in a chemically induced comma to facilitate his healing process.

Danny and Barbara were instrumental in the growth of Polar Bear riding popularity at Ocean Thunder HOG.