Remembering the Lives Lost in a Devastating Crash
Columbus, Ohio — With heavy hearts, we pause to remember the lives lost in a devastating nine-vehicle crash that unfolded Saturday evening along Interstate 71 in Delaware County, Ohio.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the collision occurred around 6:27 p.m. in the northbound lanes near the U.S. Route 36 interchange, within a construction zone where traffic had slowed and backed up. Investigators say a 2006 Freightliner semi-truck traveling northbound failed to stop in time, crashing into a line of stopped vehicles and triggering a chain-reaction crash involving nine vehicles.
The tragedy claimed the lives of three individuals from Ashley, Ohio—a 37-year-old man, a 36-year-old woman, and a 1-year-old child. Though their names have not yet been publicly released, their loss has already left a profound impact on their community and beyond. A family, bound by love, was taken in an instant, leaving behind unimaginable grief.
Three others involved in the crash sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals, where they continue to recover.
Authorities have taken Modou F. Ngom, 50, of Columbus into custody. He is currently being held at the Delaware County Jail and faces charges of vehicular homicide as the investigation continues.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a solemn reminder of how quickly lives can change on the road, especially in construction zones where caution is critical. Behind every headline are real people—families, futures, and stories that deserved to continue.
As the community mourns, we hold space for the victims and their loved ones. Their lives, though tragically cut short, will not be forgotten.
May they rest in peace.
May those injured find healing.
And may their loved ones find strength in the days ahead as they navigate this profound loss.
Gone too soon, forever remembered.