COLUMBUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Seventeen people were killed in 14 fatal crashes on Ohio roadways during the Christmas holiday, according to provisional statistics released by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The five-day reporting period began at midnight on Wednesday, Dec. 24, and concluded at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 28.
The death toll marks a significant increase from the previous year’s reporting period, during which three people were killed. However, officials noted that the 2024-2025 holiday period was considerably shorter, lasting only two days.
Of the 17 victims killed this year, patrol records indicate that four were not wearing seat belts, three were pedestrians, and two deaths were related to OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired).
Enforcement remained high throughout the week. Troopers arrested 231 drivers for OVI and made 35 arrests for illegal drug violations. Additionally, the patrol issued 288 citations for seat belt violations and 147 for distracted driving.
Despite the enforcement actions, troopers also focused on motorist assistance, helping 1,173 drivers on Ohio roads during the five-day stretch.
The public is encouraged to continue using #677 to report dangerous drivers or drug activity directly to the State Highway Patrol.