Two Killed in Ross County Crash Involving Trooper
UNION TOWNSHIP, OHIO (WSYX) — Two people died in a crash involving an Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) trooper on State Route 104 Tuesday morning.
The incident occurred just after 10:15 a.m. when a red Chevy Silverado, driven by Harold R. Smith Jr., 45, of Circleville, crossed the center line and collided with the trooper's cruiser. Both vehicles left the roadway, and Smith's vehicle caught fire.
Smith Jr. died at the scene, while his passenger, 29-year-old Amber D. Aills of Chillicothe, was transported to Adena Regional Medical Center, where she later succumbed to her injuries. The trooper sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was later transferred to The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
Authorities are investigating the crash. Witnesses reported frequent accidents on this stretch of road, attributed to speeding and risky passing attempts. “It's a rough area because people just don't pay attention,” said Forest Richendollar, a local resident who has lived along S.R. 104 for 30 years.
Emergency response included the Ross County Sheriff's Office, Chillicothe Veterans Affairs Fire Department, Union Township Fire Department, and the Ohio Department of Transportation. Crews cleared the scene by approximately 2 p.m.
Neighbors have suggested implementing roundabouts, speed cameras, and increased patrols to enhance safety on the heavily trafficked route.