OSPTA
Joe Lyons •
September 28, 2024
Joe Lyons
Joe Lyons •
September 28, 2024
Six Vehicle Serious Injury Crash
Joe Lyons •
September 28, 2024
Six Vehicle Serious Injury Crash
Perkins Township- The Ohio State Highway Patrol is currently investigating a serious six vehicle injury crash, that occurred on September 27, 2024 at approximately 08:12 P.M. on Perkins Avenue near the intersection of Hayes Avenue in the Township of Perkins, Erie County.
Tiffany Knight, 38, from Sandusky, Ohio, was driving a 2015 Cadillac ATS westbound when she struck the left rear of a Toyota Tacoma operated by Kent Galbraith, 3 1, from Sacramento, California. After this initial impact, Ms. Knight continued westbound, traveled left of center and struck a 2012 Ford Focus driven by 21-year-old Sapphire Hackathorn, also from Sandusky.
The collision caused Knight’s vehicle to spin into a westbound Ford Explorer driven by Jami Messer, 38, from Mansfield, Ohio. Hackathorn then sfruck a 2016 Ford Escape operated by 80-year-old Millie McCready from Huron, Ohio, and a 2018 Jeep Cherokee driven by 32-year-old Sabrina Crawford-Gerber from Castalia, Ohio.
Both Knight and Hackathorn sustained injuries and were transported by Perkins EMS to Firelands Hospital.
Alcohol is suspected to be a factor in the crash.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation, with assistance from the Perkins Police Department, Perkins Fire & EMS, and Wilson’s Towing.
The crash remains under investigation
Ashland County Fair 2024 Set to Delight with Week-Long Extravaganza
Joe Lyons •
September 14, 2024
Ashland, OH – September 14, 2024 – The Ashland County Fair is gearing up for an exhilarating week of festivities, food, and family fun, commencing September 15 and running through September 21. This year’s event promises an array of exciting activities, shows, and events designed to entertain visitors of all ages.
Event Details and Admission
Taking place at the Ashland County Fairgrounds, located at 2042 Claremont Avenue, Ashland, Ohio, the fair offers a variety of admission options. Attendees can purchase a membership and season pass for $25, which covers seven entries. Single-day admission is $5, and children aged 10 and under can enjoy the fair for free. Special discounts will be available on Monday, September 16, for veterans with ID and seniors aged 65 and older.
Grandstand Events
The fair’s grandstand is set to host a thrilling lineup of events, including:
- OSTPA Tractor Pull: Sunday, September 15, at 6:30 p.m.
- Harness Racing: Monday, September 16, with races at Noon and 6:00 p.m.
- Concert: Tuesday, September 17, at 7:00 p.m.
- Rodeo: Wednesday, September 18, at 7:00 p.m.
- Motocross: Thursday, September 19, at 6:00 p.m.
- Stock Tractor Pull: Friday, September 20, at 4:30 p.m.
- Demolition Derby: Saturday, September 21, at 6:00 p.m.
Family-Friendly Activities
The fair will feature numerous family-oriented events, including:
Human Antique Tractor Pull: Monday, September 16, at 6:00 p.m. Categories include Age 7-10, Age 11-15, Age 16 and Up, Women, and Corporations. Prizes are sponsored by Charlie Fliger.
Kiddie Tractor Pull: Sunday, September 15, following the adult event.
Cornhole Tournament: Wednesday, September 18, at 5:00 p.m. Teams can enter for $5 or 2 canned food items, with prizes for the top three teams. Donations will support local food banks and the Junior Fair Board.
- Diaper Derby: Thursday, September 19, at 1:30 p.m.
- Toddler Foot Race: Friday, September 20, at 1:30 p.m.
- Small Fry Car Race: Friday, September 20, at 2:30 p.m.
Livestock Auctions
The Junior Fair Livestock Auctions are scheduled as follows:
- Thursday, September 19: Market Rabbits, Market Turkeys, Market Chickens, Dairy Benefit, Baby Beef, Market Steer, starting at 3:30 p.m.
- Friday, September 20: Market Hog at 8:30 a.m., Market Lamb at 11:00 a.m., and Dairy & Meat Market Goats.
For auction details, contact ashctyfairsale@gmail.com.
Special Attractions
- Gospel Performance: The Warriors will perform on Tuesday, September 17, at Noon in the Pavilion.
- Food Specials: The Fairgrounds Cafeteria will offer daily specials, including Open Face Roast Beef on Sunday and Swiss Steak on Friday. Homemade soups and salads will also be available.
New improvements for this year’s fair include a refreshed garden, updated track, and newly installed benches in the Open Poultry Barn. Vendors are busy setting up, and tents are going up to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for attendees.
Get Involved
The Ashland County Junior Fair Board extends its gratitude to volunteers and supporters. Donations for the “Stock the Trailer” food drive can be made at the trailer near the Dairy Bar and Junior Fair Office. Monetary donations are also welcomed to support the project.
Don’t miss out on the fun and excitement of the Ashland County Fair! For more information and updates, visit the fair’s website or call 419-289-0466.
Contact Information
Ashland County Fair
2042 Claremont Avenue, Ashland, Ohio 44805
Phone: 419-289-0466
Website https://ashlandcountyfair.com/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AshlandFair
APD Cruiser Struck in This Morning’s Crash
Joe Lyons •
September 13, 2024
Ohio Highway Patrol, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland Fire Department & EMS responded to the intersection of Ashland County Road 1153 and Ashland County Road 1356 around 10:46am this morning for a two vehicle crash.
Irvin Shenberger, 87, of Ashland was driving a 2013 Kia Forte Southbound on Ashland County Road 1153 when he failed to yield to Ashland Police Division’s Officer Zeisler who was Eastbound on Ashland County Road 1356 in her marked cruiser, a 2023 Dodge Drango.
Both drivers were transported with minor injuries
House Explosion on Hook Road Claims One Life, Injures Two
Joe Lyons •
September 13, 2024
Springfield Township, OH — A devastating explosion ripped through a house on Hook Road in Springfield Township early today, resulting in one fatality and two injuries. The blast, which occurred in the 4000 block of Hook Road, sent debris flying across the surrounding area and ignited a fire that complicated rescue efforts.
Springfield Township Fire Chief Adam Spellman reported that emergency services were alerted to the scene by dispatch, which initially provided limited details. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a house that had been largely destroyed by the explosion, with a significant debris field encircling the site. The fire, which was concentrated in the basement, was described as intense, with heavy flames visible.
Chief Spellman detailed the challenging rescue operations: “We arrived to find a house with extensive damage and an active fire in the basement. Our primary focus was to control the blaze and locate any potential victims. We discovered one victim outside the house who was quickly transported to OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital by our EMS unit. At this time, her condition remains unknown.”
Firefighters were also informed of two individuals trapped inside the basement. The rescue teams, working against the odds, managed to bring the fire under control before deploying ladders to access the basement. “We found one victim under a pile of rubble. Fortunately, he was awake and talking despite significant burns,” said Spellman. This victim was airlifted to Ohio State Wexner Medical Center in Columbus via LifeFlight helicopter.
The search continued for the second victim, who was found on the opposite side of the basement. Unfortunately, this individual, a woman, was discovered covered in debris with injuries deemed “incompatible with life,” and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Richland County coroner’s investigator Bob Ball said, “Krista Cramer, 47, of Lexington was pronounced deceased on scene at 3:11pm.”
The explosion and subsequent fire prompted a large-scale response from various local fire departments. Agencies from Plymouth, Troy, Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Crestline, Galion, Mansfield, and Shelby provided mutual aid. “The scale of the explosion necessitated additional resources and manpower,” Chief Spellman explained. “We had to move substantial debris, including cinder blocks and furniture, to reach the trapped victims.”
In terms of property damage, Chief Spellman noted that a small pole barn on the property sustained damage, but it remains unclear if other nearby structures were affected. No injuries were reported among fire service personnel.
The Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Office is conducting a investigation into the cause of the explosion. Chief Spellman emphasized that, as of now, the cause remains undetermined. “Our focus is on the investigation and providing support to those affected by this tragic event.”
Authorities are expected to release more information as the investigation progresses.
Semi Truck Crash on U.S. Route 30
Joe Lyons •
September 13, 2024
Ashland, OH — September 13, 2024 — The Ashland Post of the Ohio Highway Patrol, along with the Mifflin Fire Department & EMS, responded to a semi truck crash on U.S. Route 30 just east of Ashland County Road 1255 at approximately 8:15 a.m. this morning.
According to reports, the driver of the semi truck experienced minor injuries but declined transportation to the hospital. The driver stated that he fell asleep while traveling westbound on U.S. Route 30. As a result, the semi veered into the median, traveled a considerable distance, and ultimately crossed over the raised median. The vehicle came to a halt nearly in the left lane of the eastbound traffic.
Authorities are investigating the incident further. No additional details are available at this time.
Heavy Law Enforcement Presence at Mapleton Local School this Morning
Joe Lyons •
September 13, 2024
***UPDATE***: The Mapleton Local School District and the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office have concluded the investigation of a potential threat this morning. It was determined that there wasn’t a credible threat toward a specific location or person on the Mapleton campus. The Mapleton Board of Education, administration, faculty and staff are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all of our stakeholders each and every day. We would like to thank our community partners within the Ashland County Sheriff’s office for their professionalism, service, protection and thorough investigation of today’s potential threat.
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Deputies along with Detectives converged on the School property to investigate a Potential Threat.
A text that was sent out from Mapleton Local School this morning read as follows:
Potential Threat 9.13.24
The Mapleton Local School District is investigating a potential threat that was reported to school authorities around bus arrival time this morning.
The administrative team is working closely with the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office to interview students and to determine the source of the potential threat.
At this time based on the information found during the initial investigation, administrators believe that the potential threat is not credible and cannot be substantiated as a direct threat to a specific location or person on the Mapleton campus.
The school is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all students and staff while keeping the community informed about any developments.
If you have any direct information regarding any potential threats directed toward Mapleton, please contact the district at 419-945-2188 or the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office.
Car Versus Amish Buggy on State Route 95
Joe Lyons •
September 13, 2024
Ohio Highway Patrol, Perrysville Fire Department & EMS responded to a Car Versus Amish Buggy on State Route 95 this evening at the intersection of State Route 95 at Township Road 2402.
Minor damage to both the car and the Amish Buggy, the buggy did have the Yellow Flashing light.
Minor Injuries reported
No injuries to the horse
An Amish Female was cited with Failing to Yield from a stop sign
Troopers Investigating Serious Injury Motorcycle Crash
Joe Lyons •
September 13, 2024
***UPDATE***
Kenneth Wayne Derr has passed away as a result of his injuries sustained in the crash.
Bailey Lakes – On Thursday, September 12th, 2024, at approximately 12:10 PM, a silver 2009 Harley Davidson Dyna Super Glide was northbound on US 250 when it struck the rear of a blue 1980 International 4300 semi-truck and trailer. The International was slowed, making a left turn onto County Road 758.
The operator of the Super Glide, Kenneth Wayne Derr, 71 years old of Ashland, Ohio, was transported to University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center by Savannah Fire and EMS and later flown to University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center with Life-Threatening-injuries.
The driver of the International, Brandon Mark Carpenter, 37 years old , also of Ashland, OH, was not injured.
Mr. Derr was wearing his helmet at the time of the crash.
The crash is currently under investigation.
Drugs and alcohol do not appear to be factors in the crash.
Assisting at the scene were: The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Savannah Fire Department & EMS, and Bates Towing.
Ohio’s Support for Springfield Amidst Migrant Crisis
Joe Lyons •
September 12, 2024
September 11, 2024 (COLUMBUS, Ohio)— Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced new state support for the city of Springfield, which is dealing with significant stress on its healthcare and public safety systems due to the influx of thousands of Haitian migrants over the last several years.
“I want the people of Springfield and Clark County to know that as we move forward, we will continue to do everything we can to help the community deal with this surge of migrants,” said Governor DeWine. “The federal government has not demonstrated that they have any kind of plan to deal with the issue. We will not walk away.”
The influx of Haitians to Springfield and Clark County has significantly impacted local primary care providers due to the increased number of patients and the need for more translation services. In general, migrants from Haiti have had little to no healthcare services prior to arriving in the United States, including vaccinations. Governor DeWine announced today that he is dedicating $2.5 million toward expanding primary care access for everyone living in Springfield. Governor DeWine has directed the Ohio Department of Health to work with the Clark County Health Department and other healthcare providers on this effort.
To address the increase in dangerous driving in Springfield by inexperienced Haitian drivers and all others who disregard traffic laws, Governor DeWine directed the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) to support the Springfield Police Department with traffic enforcement. Beginning tomorrow morning, OSHP troopers will patrol local roads with the highest crash rates and hold accountable any driver who drives erratically and risks the safety of others.
These two new initiatives add to other support that the state has already provided to Springfield to aid in addressing the increase in the area’s Haitian population, including:
creating a school-based health clinic in the Springfield City School District to expand primary care access for school children and their parents throughout the community
increasing support for vaccinations and health screenings through the local health department
allocating additional funds to the Clark County Department of Job and Family Services for translation services
providing funding to Clark State College for services to teach English to Haitians.
providing driving simulators and offering driver education classes targeted to the Haitian community
working with the Springfield School District to maximize existing resources and provide ongoing support to deal with the surge of migrant students
Because the federal government’s policies have led to this and other migrant surges across the United States, Governor DeWine also called on the federal government to better support communities that experience an unexpected increase in migrant population.
“The federal government needs to assist these communities with funding because these dramatic migrant surges impact every citizen in the community — the moms who have to wait hours in a waiting room with a sick child, everyone who drives on our streets, and the children who go to school in more crowded classrooms,” said Governor DeWine. “The federal government does not have a plan to give any support to the communities impacted by surges, and we have absolutely no indication that a plan is coming in the near future.”