Harry Newcomer Jr. Obituary, Death: Man killed in Greene County multi-car crash identified by authorities.
Harry Newcomer Jr. Obituary, Death – A fatal crash involving three vehicles occurred late Thursday morning on U.S. Route 68 in Xenia Township, Ohio, resulting in the death of one man and injuries to two others. The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Xenia Post confirmed that 43-year-old Harry Newcomer Jr. of Dayton was the individual killed in the collision.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene at approximately 11:34 a.m., following reports of a multi-vehicle crash in the vicinity of Winchester Road along U.S. 68. Upon arrival, authorities found three vehicles had been involved in a chain-reaction incident.
According to investigators, the crash began when the driver of a 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe, who was traveling southbound on U.S. 68, came to a stop in the roadway. The driver had been yielding to oncoming northwest-bound traffic while attempting to make a left turn into a private driveway. As the Hyundai slowed down and prepared to turn, Newcomer approached from behind in a 2010 Ford Fusion, traveling in the same direction.
In an effort to avoid rear-ending the Hyundai, Newcomer reportedly swerved to the left. Despite his attempt to avoid impact, the front of the Ford struck the left rear of the Hyundai. The collision caused Newcomer’s vehicle to veer across the centerline of the highway, where it then crashed head-on into a 2010 Chevrolet traveling northeast on U.S. 68.
Tragically, Newcomer was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and suffered fatal injuries as a result of the collision. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The drivers of the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Chevrolet sustained injuries in the crash but were fortunate to avoid life-threatening harm. Both were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. According to the highway patrol, both surviving drivers were wearing their seatbelts, which likely contributed to the less severe nature of their injuries.
Troopers with the Ohio State Highway Patrol remained on the scene for several hours, investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision. Initial findings suggest that Newcomer’s evasive maneuver, while likely made in an attempt to prevent one collision, ultimately led to a more serious outcome. Authorities have not released the names of the two surviving drivers but confirmed that their conditions were stable.
Investigators have not indicated whether speed or other external factors such as road conditions or distractions may have contributed to the crash. Toxicology results and further mechanical inspections of the vehicles may offer additional insight as the investigation continues.
The crash serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of seatbelt use, especially in high-speed or unexpected traffic situations. While the other two drivers emerged with non-life-threatening injuries, Newcomer’s lack of restraint likely played a significant role in the severity of his outcome. The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to emphasize the life-saving benefits of wearing a seatbelt, regardless of the duration or distance of the drive.
Traffic was temporarily disrupted in both directions along U.S. 68 near Winchester Road as emergency crews and investigators worked the scene. The road was cleared later in the afternoon, and normal traffic flow was restored.
Community members in the Dayton and Xenia areas expressed condolences for the family of Harry Newcomer, Jr., who tragically lost his life. Those who knew him described him as a hardworking individual and expressed shock over the sudden loss.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging any witnesses who may have seen the crash or the moments leading up to it to come forward with information. Witness accounts, along with dashcam footage from nearby vehicles if available, may help investigators piece together a more comprehensive understanding of the sequence of events.
As of now, no citations or charges have been announced in connection with the crash. Officials will continue to evaluate the circumstances and await full investigative reports before making further determinations.
This incident marks another tragic addition to the list of fatal vehicle crashes in Ohio this year. It highlights the critical importance of driving attentively, maintaining safe following distances, and using appropriate safety measures such as seatbelts at all times. Authorities encourage all drivers to remain vigilant, especially when sharing the road with others making turns or changing lanes.
The investigation remains ongoing. Updates will be provided by the Ohio State Highway Patrol as more details become available.
