David S. Ayers Obituary, Death; OSP: One Dead, One Injured in Highland County Intersection Crash

David S. Ayers Obituary, Death – On Sunday morning, a deadly crash in Highland County claimed the life of an elderly man and left another individual hospitalized. The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) reported that the accident took place just before noon, at approximately 11:50 a.m., near the intersection of State Route 138 and Mad River Road.

Authorities explained that troopers were dispatched after receiving reports of a serious two-vehicle crash. When they arrived, investigators began piecing together the events that led to the collision. Their preliminary findings indicate that a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee, traveling southbound, failed to stop at a posted stop sign. Ignoring the traffic control, the Jeep entered the intersection directly into the path of a 2021 Chevrolet Traverse, resulting in a severe impact.

The force of the collision caused both vehicles to veer off the roadway, eventually coming to rest on the southeast corner of the intersection. Emergency responders quickly assessed the scene and worked to provide aid to those involved. Tragically, one passenger in the Chevrolet Traverse, identified as 97-year-old David S. Ayers of Hillsboro, did not survive. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Another passenger inside the Chevrolet Traverse sustained serious injuries. Due to the severity of the condition, emergency crews arranged for the individual to be airlifted to Miami Valley Hospital for advanced treatment. While the extent of their injuries has not been disclosed, authorities confirmed that the person remains hospitalized.

Two additional people, who were also involved in the crash, were evaluated and treated at the scene. Fortunately, their injuries did not require hospital transportation.

The OSHP continues to investigate the incident, focusing on the circumstances that led to the Jeep driver’s failure to obey the stop sign. While impairment, speed, or distraction have not yet been publicly identified as contributing factors, investigators are working to determine whether any of these played a role in the deadly wreck.

Deadly crashes like this highlight the dangers of disregarding traffic signals, particularly at intersections where visibility and reaction time are crucial. Law enforcement officials often stress that even a brief lapse in attention, such as missing a stop sign, can have devastating consequences not only for drivers but also for passengers and other motorists sharing the road.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol has not released additional details about the driver of the Jeep or the condition of those treated at the crash site. As the investigation moves forward, officials may provide further updates.

Meanwhile, the family of David Ayers is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of their loved one. At 97, Ayers lived a long life, but his final moments were cut short due to a collision that could have been prevented.

This incident serves as a somber reminder for drivers to remain vigilant, obey traffic signals, and approach intersections with caution. Investigators are urging anyone with information or who may have witnessed the crash to reach out to the Ohio State Highway Patrol as they work to bring closure and clarity to all involved.