Tuscarawas County, OH (August 24, 2025) — A devastating three-vehicle crash on Interstate 77 in Oxford Township left a teenage driver dead and six others injured Thursday afternoon.
According to reports, the Ohio State Highway Patrol says 18-year-old Ava Stamets of Newcomerstown was traveling northbound in a Honda CR-V near milepost 63 when, around 2:18 p.m., her vehicle crossed the median and entered southbound lanes. Her SUV first collided with a Ford F-150, causing the truck to overturn after veering off the left side of the road.
Stamets’ vehicle then spun into the right lane, striking a Ram 1500. Both vehicles went off the road and hit a guardrail. Stamets was pronounced dead at the scene by the Tuscarawas County Coroner’s Office.
The drivers of the F-150 and Ram 1500, along with four passengers in the Ram, were transported to Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center with injuries described as minor. Troopers reported that drugs and alcohol are suspected factors in the crash, which remains under investigation.
Protect Your Rights After a Fatal Accident Today
In tragic cases like this, families are left with heartbreak and difficult legal questions. A fatal crash may warrant a wrongful death investigation, especially when impairment is suspected. Legal professionals can help identify liable parties, preserve evidence, and pursue compensation for damages such as funeral costs and emotional suffering.
If your family has been affected by a car accident near Tuscarawas County, or if you’ve experienced a serious car accident near me, now is the time to seek support. A knowledgeable attorney can protect your rights and advocate for justice.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
Details in this article are based on early law enforcement reports and may change as the investigation continues. If you’re seeking information about next steps following a crash, refer to our frequently asked questions in Ohio.
- Ava Stamets, 18, was confirmed deceased at the scene. Her family has been notified.
- Authorities are investigating the possibility that drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash.
- Traffic on I-77 was impacted for several hours as officials cleared the scene and redirected vehicles.
For those navigating the aftermath of a collision, support and resources are available. Visit accident resources in Ohio for help with recovery, legal options, and more.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. Information is based on public records at the time of publication and may be updated. If you or someone you know has been impacted by a similar event, consider contacting a legal professional. Read our full disclaimer.
