Jessica Miller, 40, of Tullahoma, Tennessee, tragically lost her life early Thursday morning in a rear-end collision on northbound I-75 in Wood County, Ohio. The crash occurred around 4:20 a.m. near the I-475 interchange in Perrysburg Township within an active construction zone.
Authorities report that a Freightliner M2 box truck, driven by 54-year-old Joel Settlemire of Findlay, was stopped in the middle lane due to road work. Miller’s Dodge Grand Caravan struck the rear of the stationary truck after failing to maintain a safe following distance. The force of the impact caused severe damage to the minivan, with devastating consequences for its occupants.
Troopers noted that none of the three passengers in the minivan were properly restrained. Jessica Miller was wearing only a lap belt, while 38-year-old David Miller and a 9-year-old girl in the rear seats were unbelted at the time of the collision. Emergency responders from multiple agencies rushed to the scene, providing urgent assistance to all involved. Despite their efforts, Jessica Miller was transported to St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo, where she was pronounced deceased.
David Miller sustained serious injuries and remains hospitalized under medical care. The 9-year-old girl received minor injuries and was transported for evaluation and treatment. Authorities have not released further details about the ongoing investigation into the crash.
Jessica Miller’s death is a tragic reminder of the dangers of unrestrained travel and the risks present in active construction zones. Family, friends, and the community are mourning the loss of a beloved individual whose life was cut far too short.
Officials continue to urge drivers to exercise caution, obey traffic laws, and ensure all passengers are properly secured, particularly in areas with road work and temporary traffic disruptions.