Introduction
A fatal crash occurred in Morrow County on March 31, 2024, resulting in the loss of four lives. The crash happened on Interstate 71 near mile marker 152 in Franklin Township, involving two vehicles traveling in opposite directions. This article will provide details of the crash, the investigation, and the victims.
The Crash
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, a 2020 Hyundai Tucson driven by Larry A. Dotson, 32, of Canton, was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of I-71 when it collided head-on with a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Salvador Alfaro Castaneda, 26, of Columbus ¹. The vehicles overturned and caught fire, resulting in the death of four individuals.
Victims
The victims of the crash include:
-
Cristal Galloso Olvera, 31, of Columbus
-
Ivonne Olvera, 50, of Columbus (related to Cristal Galloso Olvera)
-
Larry A. Dotson, 32, of Canton (driver of the Hyundai Tucson)
-
Marlee Middleton, 32, of Massillon (passenger in the Hyundai Tucson)
Investigation
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the crash, including whether drugs or alcohol were involved. The investigation is ongoing, and no further information has been released.
Prevention of Wrong-Way Crashes
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is investing $2.7 million in new detection technology to prevent wrong-way crashes. The technology will be installed on 31 interstate ramps in the Columbus metro area and is expected to be operational by the end of this year or early next year ².
Conclusion
The Morrow County fatal crash is a tragic reminder of the importance of safe driving practices. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, and the victims and their families are in our thoughts. The implementation of new technology to prevent wrong-way crashes is a step in the right direction to reduce the number of fatalities on our roads.
