Jason Alford Obituary, Death News – A 22-year-old man lost his life in a vehicle crash that occurred Wednesday afternoon along U.S. Highway 224, an incident that also left another driver seriously injured. According to the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, the accident took place just before 5 p.m. in Blanchard Township, near Township Road 123. Authorities reported that Jason Alford, 22, from Findlay, was driving westbound on U.S. 224 when the crash occurred.
Preliminary details indicate that traffic was slowing or stopped near the intersection when Alford’s vehicle moved into the eastbound lanes for reasons that are still under investigation. In the process, his car sideswiped another vehicle traveling westbound before colliding head-on with a third vehicle that was also moving west and being driven by a 63-year-old man from Alabama.
Emergency personnel, including local sheriff’s deputies and paramedics, responded swiftly to the scene. Despite their efforts, Alford could not be revived and was pronounced deceased at the site. The Alabama driver sustained serious injuries and was taken to Blanchard Valley Hospital for medical care. Authorities have not released further details regarding his current condition.
Law enforcement officers closed off the affected portion of the highway for several hours while they conducted a crash reconstruction and cleared debris from the scene. Traffic in both directions was diverted as investigators worked to determine the exact sequence of events and contributing factors.
The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office reported that weather and visibility were normal at the time, and no immediate signs suggested impairment or excessive speed as contributing causes, though officials emphasized that a full investigation is ongoing. The Ohio Department of Transportation and local fire departments also assisted with traffic control and scene management.
Witnesses who were driving through the area told authorities they saw multiple vehicles slowing near the intersection just moments before the collision. Investigators are reviewing those statements, along with evidence gathered from the roadway and vehicle damage, to help clarify how the crash unfolded.
The sheriff’s office expressed condolences to the family and friends of Jason Alford, noting that crashes like this serve as a reminder of how quickly road conditions and driver decisions can change outcomes. Authorities urged motorists to remain cautious, especially when approaching intersections or stopped traffic.
No charges have been filed at this time, and officials said the investigation remains active. Once the investigation is complete, a full report will be forwarded to the Hancock County Prosecutor’s Office for review.
Community members in Findlay expressed sadness upon learning of Alford’s passing, describing him as a friendly and hardworking young man. Local residents have also shared their support for the other driver involved, wishing him a full and swift recovery.
The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who witnessed the collision or who may have dashcam footage from the area around the time of the crash to contact their traffic investigations unit. Information from bystanders could help clarify the moments leading up to the impact and provide insight into what caused Alford’s vehicle to move into the opposite lane.
Authorities continue to emphasize safe driving habits, including maintaining attention at all times, avoiding distractions, and slowing down near intersections or areas of heavy traffic.
The tragic collision remains under investigation by the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s crash reconstruction team. Further details will be released as they become available.
