A tragic two-vehicle collision near Central State University in Greene County claimed one life and left three college students injured Sunday evening.
Emergency crews responded to the crash around 7:52 p.m. along U.S. Route 42 near Hickman Road. State troopers and local medics arrived quickly at the scene, where traffic was temporarily blocked as authorities worked to assist victims and investigate the incident.
According to preliminary findings from investigators, a vehicle traveling southbound on U.S. 42 attempted to turn and entered the path of an oncoming vehicle traveling northbound. The two vehicles collided and veered off the roadway upon impact.
The driver of the northbound vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials confirmed that the deceased individual was not a student. Authorities have not yet released the person’s identity pending notification of family members.
Three college students who were inside one of the vehicles involved sustained injuries and were transported by medics to a nearby hospital for treatment. The extent of their injuries has not been publicly disclosed, but officials indicated they were conscious when taken from the scene.
Photographs from the crash site showed at least one heavily damaged vehicle resting off the roadway, while law enforcement vehicles blocked traffic to secure the area and allow emergency responders to work safely.
Investigators remained at the location for several hours gathering evidence, documenting the scene, and working to determine the full circumstances that led to the crash. At this time, it remains unclear whether speed, impairment, or other contributing factors played a role.
U.S. 42 was temporarily restricted as crews cleared debris and ensured the roadway was safe for drivers. Traffic has since resumed.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing. Authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution along rural highways, particularly during evening hours when visibility is reduced and traffic patterns can change quickly.
