Bellefontaine, OH (February 26, 2025) – A chain-reaction crash involving four vehicles on Township Road 179 Tuesday afternoon resulted in one person being injured and multiple vehicles sustaining damage, according to the Bellefontaine Police Department.
Authorities report that the accident began when a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, driven by 20-year-old Tessla Woodlum of Bellefontaine, came to a stop on the roadway to allow a vehicle to back a trailer into a driveway.
Behind her, an 18-year-old driver, Angel Shook of St. Paris, stopped a 1987 Jeep Cherokee, followed by 17-year-old Naaman Stidham of West Liberty, who halted his 2005 Ford F-250.
Moments later, an 18-year-old driver, Hunter Cramer of West Liberty, crested a hill in a 1995 Dodge Ram and was unable to stop in time, colliding with the rear of Stidham’s truck. The force of the impact pushed Stidham’s vehicle into Shook’s Jeep, which then struck Woodlum’s Malibu.
Emergency responders from Tri-Valley EMS transported Shook to Mary Rutan Hospital for treatment of suspected minor injuries.
The Jeep and truck were towed from the scene due to significant damage. Authorities cited Cramer for assured clear distance ahead, a violation often issued when a driver fails to maintain enough space to stop safely.
Our thoughts are with the injured victim, and we hope for a full recovery.
Rear-End Collisions in Ohio
Rear-end crashes, especially those involving multiple vehicles, can cause serious injuries and extensive property damage. In Ohio, these accidents frequently occur due to following too closely, speeding, distracted driving, or limited visibility due to roadway design.
Ohio law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance to allow for sudden stops. Failure to do so can result in citations, as seen in this incident. Even at lower speeds, rear-end impacts can cause injuries such as whiplash, concussions, or back injuries.
Hilly terrain and unexpected stops on rural roads, like Township Road 179, make it especially important for drivers to adjust their speed and remain attentive to road conditions. This crash also highlights the importance of brake maintenance and defensive driving, particularly in areas with limited visibility.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by another driver’s failure to stop in time, you may be entitled to medical and legal support.
At Local Accident Reports, we are committed to helping accident victims understand their options and connect with the resources they need. If you’ve been hurt in a crash, reach out today to learn how you can protect your rights and seek fair compensation for your injuries.