BLANCHARD TOWNSHIP, Ohio — A tragic crash on Wednesday afternoon claimed the life of 22-year-old Jason Alford of Findlay and left another driver seriously injured, according to the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office. The deadly collision occurred shortly before 5 p.m. on U.S. Highway 224 near Township Road 123 in Blanchard Township.
Preliminary reports indicate that traffic had slowed or stopped near the intersection when Alford’s vehicle, traveling westbound, veered into the eastbound lanes for reasons still under investigation. In the process, his car sideswiped another westbound vehicle before colliding head-on with a third vehicle driven by a 63-year-old man from Alabama. The impact was severe, leaving both vehicles heavily damaged across the highway.
Emergency responders, including sheriff’s deputies, firefighters, and paramedics, arrived quickly at the scene. Despite their life-saving efforts, Alford was pronounced dead at the site. The Alabama driver sustained serious injuries and was rushed to Blanchard Valley Hospital for emergency treatment. His current condition has not been publicly released.
Authorities closed a section of U.S. 224 for several hours as they conducted a crash reconstruction and cleared the wreckage. Traffic was diverted in both directions while investigators from the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol examined the scene for clues. Officials confirmed that weather and visibility were clear, and there were no immediate signs of impairment or speeding, though the investigation remains active.
Witnesses told deputies that several vehicles appeared to be slowing down near the intersection just moments before the crash. Investigators are reviewing witness statements, vehicle damage, and roadway evidence to determine what caused Alford’s car to cross into the opposing lane. Authorities are also asking anyone with dashcam footage or firsthand information about the incident to contact the sheriff’s traffic investigations unit.
The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office extended condolences to Alford’s family and friends, calling the crash a sobering reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike on the road. Community members in Findlay described Alford as a kind, hardworking young man, and many have expressed support for the injured driver and his family. Officials continue to urge motorists to stay alert, reduce distractions, and drive cautiously near intersections and areas of slowed traffic as the investigation into this fatal collision continues.