Claudia Phan Death News – Authorities in Union County, Ohio, are investigating a tragic two-vehicle collision that took place Sunday evening and resulted in the death of a 17-year-old girl, while four others were taken to hospitals with varying injuries. The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) confirmed the details as they continue working to determine the full sequence of events.
The crash occurred shortly after 7:24 p.m. on Hyland Croy Road near Johnston Drive. Troopers were dispatched to the scene following multiple reports of a serious accident involving two vehicles traveling in opposite directions along the roadway. Hyland Croy Road, a well-traveled corridor in the area, was quickly shut down as emergency responders worked to treat those involved and secure the crash site.
Preliminary findings released by OSHP indicate that a northbound Kia Forte, driven by 17-year-old Claudia Phan of Dublin, veered left of the center line for reasons not yet known. As the vehicle crossed into the opposite lane, it collided with a southbound Ford Explorer operated by 37-year-old Jason Lyle of Lewis Center. The impact was significant and caused both vehicles to leave the roadway, traveling off to the right side after the collision.
Emergency responders attempted to assist everyone involved, but authorities confirmed that Phan sustained fatal injuries and passed away at the scene. Her vehicle suffered extensive damage, and the force of the crash left little opportunity for life-saving intervention. OSHP has not yet commented on what may have caused Phan’s vehicle to drift left of center, and investigators are expected to review multiple factors, including visibility, road conditions, speed, and any potential distractions.
The driver of the Ford Explorer, Jason Lyle, was seriously injured in the crash. He was transported to Riverside Methodist Hospital for immediate medical attention. Although the extent of his injuries has not been fully detailed, officials described them as serious but did not provide further updates on his condition.
Additionally, the Explorer had three passengers at the time of the collision. The front-seat passenger, 34-year-old Ashley Lyle, also from Lewis Center, sustained minor injuries and was taken to Riverside Methodist Hospital for treatment. Two younger passengers—both juveniles—were also hurt. They were transported to Nationwide Children’s Hospital with injuries believed to be minor. Authorities did not release the ages of the children but confirmed they were stable.
The crash has deeply impacted the community, particularly because one of the individuals involved was a teenager whose life was cut short. Residents of the Dublin and Lewis Center areas have expressed condolences to the families, while law enforcement officials urged patience as they conduct a thorough investigation.
As part of their standard procedures, the Ohio State Highway Patrol will examine the vehicles, document the crash site, and review statements from those who witnessed the collision or arrived shortly afterward. Reconstruction experts may also be involved to help clarify the angles, speeds, and movements of both vehicles leading up to the impact.
At this stage, OSHP has not suggested any specific contributing factors, and no charges have been announced. Investigators emphasized that their findings will take time, especially as they analyze evidence and gather information from all parties.
For now, the focus remains on understanding what led to the northbound vehicle crossing into the opposite lane and determining whether environmental, mechanical, or human-related elements played a role. The incident underscores the unpredictability of roadway situations and the importance of continued awareness for all drivers.
The investigation remains active, and authorities say more details will be released as information becomes available.
