Ashland – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding everyone to buckle up this upcoming holiday season and always. Since 2018, there have been 2,847 people killed in Ohio crashes who were not wearing an available safety belt.
“There is no question that seat belts save lives, and I encourage everyone to make it a habit to always buckle up,” said Governor Mike DeWine.
Statistics show 72 percent of vehicle occupants aged 21 to 40 killed in motor vehicle crashes were not wearing an available safety belt. More men (65 percent) than women (52 percent) who were unbelted were fatally injured in crashes.
“Properly buckling up, every time you get into a motor vehicle reduces the risk of sustaining serious injuries or death in a crash,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “Wearing a safety belt remains the simplest thing you and your loved ones can do to stay safe when getting into a vehicle.”
Ohio’s safety belt law remains a secondary violation; however, troopers will continue to have zero tolerance when motorists are stopped for other violations and are found to not be wearing their safety belt. Since 2018, troopers have issued more than 475,000 safety belt and child safety seat citations.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol encourages everyone to Buckle Up Every Trip, Every Time.
A statistical map containing safety belt usage, violations and crash information can be found here.
The public is encouraged to call #677 to report impaired drivers, drug activity, or stranded motorists.
Jackson Township -The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal car crash involving two vehicles at the intersection of State Route 39 and Myers Road in Jackson Township. The crash occurred south of Shelby, on November 2nd 2023 around 2:23 pm.
Alan Vasquez, age 41, of Shelby, was driving a 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan westbound on Myers Road. John Dray, age 71, of Mansfield, was driving a 2018 Nissan Versa southbound on State Route 39.
Mr. Vasquez proceeded westbound on Myers Road, crossing State Route 39, failing to yield to Mr. Dray. Mr. Dray struck Mr. Vasquez in the passenger side as the vehicles met in the southbound lanes of State Route 39. Mr. Dray came to rest in the southbound lane but Mr. Vasquez overturned and continued off the west side of State Route 39.
Mr. Dray and his wife, Terri, age 64, were transported to Ohio Health Mansfield by Shelby Fire and EMS. Mrs. Dray succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased by the attending physician. Mr. Vasquez sustained minor injuries but was not transported.
Shelby Police, Shelby Fire and EMS, the Richland County Coroner, Shelly Smith and Sons Towing, and Westside Towing assisted during the crash investigation.
The crash remains under investigation, impairment was not suspected.
The recent flyer that arrived in my mailbox shed light on an important issue surrounding the Ashland Public Library 1 mill for 5 years Renewal tax levy that is set to be voted on November 7th.
According to an ashlandsource.com article, there was a significant response from concerned citizens, during an Ashland Public Library board meeting, expressing their worries about the protection of childhood innocence and local accountability.
Unfortunately, it seems that the Ashland Public Library board chose to disregard those voices, leaving citizens feeling frustrated and unheard. As a means to capture the board’s attention and demand change, the flyer suggests voting NO on the Renewal tax levy.
It appears that the board has been resistant to finding a compromise, such as moving certain books to an adult shelf. This approach indicates the importance of acknowledging the concerns raised by citizens and promoting open dialogue, to ensure the preservation of childhood innocence and local accountability.
Flyer Reads as follows:
In July of 2022, hundreds of parents, grandparents, guardians, and concerned citizens filled the Ashland Public Library board meeting to make a statement against several “controversial books” being offered to children.
Controversial books such as “Making a Baby” by Rachel Greener, depicting what many consider to be indecent and offensive content – intended for 5-8 year old children.
The collective ask was that if the Ashland Public Library board would not remove books like this, then to please move them to a higher shelf where parents and guardians could decide what is appropriate for their children.
The answer was no. The board president alleged that relocating or removing the books is censorship.
“They are informing children,” said current Ashland Public Library board President, Sandra Tunnell.
Tunnell is exactly right about what these books are doing: they are informing our children, but in matters of which numerous individuals in our community find appalling.
It’s time to inform the library that the voices of concerned citizens who feel strongly about protecting childhood innocence and local accountability matter. Vote NO on November 7.
Jackson Township – Troopers from the Ashland Highway Patrol Post are investigating a fatal crash which occurred on US 42 at the intersection of State Route 302 in Ashland County, Ohio.
On Wednesday, November 1st, 2023 at approximately 1021 hours, a 2012 Freightliner semi-truck driven by Abdikadir Abshir Shire, age 37 of Saint Paul, Minnesota was southbound on SR 302. A 2001 Toyota Camry driven by John Thomas Keener, age 40 of Ashland, Ohio was north/eastbound on US 42. The Freightliner semi-truck failed to yield at the stop sign and entered the intersection into the path of the Toyota Camry, striking it. Both vehicles went off of the roadway after the collision and came to a final rest in a field off the southeast corner of the intersection.
The driver of the Toyota Camry was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Freightliner semi-truck was treated at the scene for minor injuries.
SR 302 is still closed just south of the intersection of US 42 for scene clean-up. US 42 is now open in both directions.
Other agencies assisting at the crash scene were: Town & County Fire & EMS, Polk/Jackson Township Fire & EMS, The Ohio Department of Transportation, and the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office.
Drugs and alcohol are not considered to be factors in the crash. The crash remains under investigation.
Pursuit video just released from the early October pursuit
According to a Richland News Network Story, on October, 2, 2023 Ohio Highway Patrol was involved in a high speed pursuit a Chrysler 300, was reported running at speeds in excess of 100 mph, passing on the berm, and turning all lights off (going dark). The vehicle’s tires were spiked at or around the 178 mile marker and lost control at the 181.2 Mile marker veering off the side of the roadway and crashing.
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office along with Loudonville Fire & EMS responded to a semi versus utility pole at the intersection of Township Road 629 and Ashland County Road 3374 this evening.
It appeared that the guidewire was low enough to catch the trailer, pulling the pole down between the cab and the trailer.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP – A trooper from the Ashland Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol was struck while outside his vehicle while investigating a previous crash at approximately 5:50 a.m. The injury crash occurred on Interstate 71 northbound near County Road 175 in Jackson Township, Ashland County.
On November 1 at 5:26 a.m., troopers were dispatched to a report of a single-vehicle crash on an ice-covered bridge on Interstate 71 northbound near milepost 193. Troopers arrived on scene and located a Jeep just north of the County Road 175 bridge in the median. ODOT was notified of icy roadways in the area.
Trooper Tanner R. Guinther was standing outside of his cruiser investigating the original crash in the median when a northbound 2021 Toyota Tacoma, driven by Michelle N. Paxton, 37, Carroll, lost control on the ice-covered bridge and struck Trooper Guinther’s patrol car before continuing into the median where it struck Trooper Guinther and the original crashed Jeep.
Trooper Guinther was transported to Ohio Health in Ashland with minor injuries, where he was treated and released. Paxton and the driver of the Jeep were not injured during the crash. The crash remains under investigation.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by the Town & Country Fire Department, ODOT and Abers Towing.
Motorists are reminded to proceed with caution anytime they see flashing lights ahead and to reduce their speed on icy or snow-covered roadways.
A Missing Adult Alert has been issued by the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office statewide.
Information as of: November 1, 2023 at 8:27 PM
Be on the lookout for a missing adult. On November 1, 2023 at 6:20 PM, Diane Wiles left her residence in a family members car. Has a history of Cancer and Alzheimer’s. Possibly heading towards 250/I77.
The incident took place in Wayne County, OH on GRANGE ST in the city of Apple Creek.
The adult’s name is Diane Wiles and the individual is missing. The adult is a White female, age 81, is 5’03” tall, weighs 160lbs, and has brown hair and blue eyes.
The vehicle involved is a white 2017 Chevy Silverado with OH plate number JMM6890. Vehicle pictured in NOT actual vehicle missing
Call or dial 911 if you see the adult or the vehicle. You can also call Call 911 or Contact to be transferred directly to the investigating law enforcement agency or to hear the alert information.
To view photographs, visit the Endangered Missing Adult Alert website at: http://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Law-Enforcement/Local-Law-Enforcement/Missing-Adult-Alert
On November 1, 2023 at 6:20 PM, Diane Wiles left her residence in a family members car. Has a history of Cancer and Alzheimer’s.
Possibly heading towards 250/I77.
The incident took place in Wayne County, OH on Grange ST in the city of Apple Creek
ASHLAND –The Women’s Fund of Ashland County Community Foundation recently honored Elaine Hess as the recipient of the 2023 Dr. Lucille G. Ford “Freedom from Selfishness” Award.
Established in 2013 and named for Ashland County Community Foundation’s founding president, Dr. Lucille Ford, this prestigious annual award recognizes women who have shown a long-standing commitment to philanthropy in Ashland County. The award was presented at an October 23 reception with dozens of Hess’s friends, family members and colleagues in attendance.
Dr. Ford defines philanthropy as “freedom from selfishness,” and she has exemplified that definition throughout her life. Only one recipient is chosen each year, and each award recipient has given time, talent or resources to improve the lives of others and the community as a whole.
A retired teacher, Elaine is the co-founder and director of the Ashland County Honor Bus, a program that helps local veterans visit Washington, D.C. to see their war memorials for the first time. High School students accompany the veterans to provide practical assistance and learn about history. Hess goes above and beyond to help make the trip meaningful and memorable for students and veterans alike.
She is also a member of Southview Grace Brethren Church, where she leads the children’s ministry and orchestrates Vacation Bible School. Additionally, she directs the popular Wifflefest tournament, held annually at the church.
“If honor, time and compassion were currency, then Elaine has invested more into our community than anyone I know,” Joel Zook, lead pastor at Southview Grace Brethren Church, said in a letter of support that accompanied Hess’s nomination by Katie Brown.
He continued, “But most of all, she does it with a joyful smile and a heart of compassion because what matters most to her is making a difference in the lives of others.”
Arica Betson, a friend and mentee of Elaine and a successful business owner, credits Elaine as one of her most trusted advisors.
“Elaine sees and speaks to who and what you can be, not who you currently are,” Betson said. “Elaine spoke to the leader and possibilities in me before I knew they were there.”
Elaine has been inducted into Ashland County Woman of Achievement, and she has served on the board for that organization.
Dr. JoAnn Ford Watson read remarks on behalf of her mother, Dr. Ford, who was unable to attend the award ceremony.
“Elaine, you exemplify a life in service, for others, for God, our community, and for our nation,” she said. “Congratulations. Well done. God bless you.”
Hess shared reflections on selflessness, saying her heart for serving others was shaped by her family, her former students and her faith.
“God has blessed me with so many opportunities to just serve him,” Hess said.
Referencing a Bible verse from 1 Peter Chapter 4, Hess said her desire is to glorify God as good steward of His grace.
Hess also praised Dr. Ford for envisioning the Women’s Fund, and, with the help of other local women, bringing the dream to fruition.
“I’m thankful for women like Dr. Lucille Ford with vision for an Ashland community of women who celebrate each other and the Ashland community,” she said.
Nominees for the Dr. Lucille G. Ford “Freedom from Selfishness” Award must be current residents of Ashland County and must have lived in the county for at least the past 20 years. Award recipients are selected by a committee of the Women’s Fund of Richland County Foundation.
Past award recipients include Nancy T. Davis (2014), Janet L. Archer (2015), Nancy E. Kopp (2016), Ann J. Miller (2017), Dr. JoAnn Ford Watson (2018), Diana S. Brechbuhler (2019), Dr. Julia Wright (2020), Lori Gottfried (2021) and Norma Wygant (2022).
About Ashland County Community Foundation: Ashland County Community Foundation advances philanthropy and improves the quality of life in Ashland County by connecting people who care with causes that matter. ACCF has awarded over $27 million in scholarships, grants and distributions.
Mario Godrey Age: 44
Black / Male / 5’9’’ / 220lbs / Brown Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Adult Parole Authority for a parole violation on the original charge of aggravated vehicular homicide.
Ties to Mansfield and Cleveland area.
Marquis Morris Age: 34
Black / Male / 6’0’’ / 165lbs / Black Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office on the charge of felonious assault.
Ties to Mansfield area and Oxon Hill MD.
Jose Florez Age: 45
White / Male / 6’0” / Black Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for rape.
Ties to Mansfield area.
Steven Drummond Age: 26
White / Male / 5’9’’ / 160lbs / Blond Hair / Blue Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office for failure to register (sex offence).
Ties to the Mansfield and Shelby area.
Reward money is available for information directly leading to an arrest. Anyone with information concerning any of these fugitives can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force office at 419-774-3565 or the tip line at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833) or you can send a web tip at the following webpage http://www.usmarshals.gov/district/oh-n/index.html.
The NOVFTF Akron Division consists of the following federal, state and local agencies:
United States Marshals Service, Mansfield Police Department, Ohio Adult Parole Authority, Richland County Probation, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Bucyrus Police Department, Galion Police Department, Huron County Sheriff’s Office, Lexington Police Department, Loudonville Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ontario Police Department, Plymouth Police Department, Willard Police Department and Crestline Police Department.
Joe Lyons •
November 2, 2023
Ashland – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding everyone to buckle up this upcoming holiday season and always. Since 2018, there have been 2,847 people killed in Ohio crashes who were not wearing an available safety belt.
Jackson Township -The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal car crash involving two vehicles at the intersection of State Route 39 and Myers Road in Jackson Township. The crash occurred south of Shelby, on November 2nd 2023 around 2:23 pm.
The recent flyer that arrived in my mailbox shed light on an important issue surrounding the Ashland Public Library 1 mill for 5 years Renewal tax levy that is set to be voted on November 7th.
Jackson Township – Troopers from the Ashland Highway Patrol Post are investigating a fatal crash which occurred on US 42 at the intersection of State Route 302 in Ashland County, Ohio.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP – A trooper from the Ashland Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol was struck while outside his vehicle while investigating a previous crash at approximately 5:50 a.m. The injury crash occurred on Interstate 71 northbound near County Road 175 in Jackson Township, Ashland County.
On November 1 at 5:26 a.m., troopers were dispatched to a report of a single-vehicle crash on an ice-covered bridge on Interstate 71 northbound near milepost 193. Troopers arrived on scene and located a Jeep just north of the County Road 175 bridge in the median. ODOT was notified of icy roadways in the area.
Trooper Tanner R. Guinther was standing outside of his cruiser investigating the original crash in the median when a northbound 2021 Toyota Tacoma, driven by Michelle N. Paxton, 37, Carroll, lost control on the ice-covered bridge and struck Trooper Guinther’s patrol car before continuing into the median where it struck Trooper Guinther and the original crashed Jeep.
ASHLAND –The Women’s Fund of Ashland County Community Foundation recently honored Elaine Hess as the recipient of the 2023 Dr. Lucille G. Ford “Freedom from Selfishness” Award.
