Deadly Head-On Collision on U.S. Route 250 Claims One Life in Tuscarawas County
TUSCARAWAS COUNTY, Ohio – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate a tragic two-vehicle crash that occurred Monday afternoon in Union Township, near the Harrison County line. The collision resulted in one fatality and left another driver injured, prompting an outpouring of support for the victims and renewed calls for caution on rural highways.
The crash occurred at approximately 3:18 p.m. on U.S. Route 250 near mile marker 27, according to troopers from the New Philadelphia Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Preliminary findings reveal that a 2003 Cadillac DeVille, operated by Bobbie Jo Hart, age 50, of Waynesburg, Ohio, was traveling westbound when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle crossed the center line into the path of an eastbound 2024 Toyota Tacoma.
The Toyota pickup truck was driven by Keith Confer, age 67, of Cadiz, Ohio. Hart’s vehicle struck the Tacoma in a devastating head-on collision, forcing the truck off the right side of the road, where it struck the end of a guardrail and overturned, coming to rest atop the barrier.
Bobbie Jo Hart was pronounced dead at the scene by the Tuscarawas County Coroner’s Office. Keith Confer sustained injuries in the crash and was transported to Mercy Hospital for treatment. The extent of his injuries has not yet been disclosed, but officials confirmed he was alert and conscious at the time of transport.
Investigators stated that both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash, a factor that may have prevented more severe outcomes for the surviving driver. However, troopers also noted that drugs are believed to have been a contributing factor in the crash, though toxicology reports are still pending as the investigation continues.
A large emergency response effort was launched immediately following the incident. Agencies responding to the scene included the Ohio Department of Transportation, Tuscarawas County Sheriff’s Office, Dennison Fire Department, Smith Ambulance, Countryside Towing, and D & S Towing. The scene remained active for several hours as responders worked to clear the wreckage, assist the injured, and begin the crash reconstruction process.
The crash caused temporary traffic delays on U.S. Route 250, with the roadway partially closed to allow for emergency personnel to work safely. Motorists were advised to seek alternate routes during the investigation.
This stretch of U.S. 250, which runs through a mix of rural and residential areas, has been the site of several serious crashes in recent years. Local residents and officials alike continue to express concern over speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving on this corridor.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or the moments leading up to it to come forward with information that may assist in the ongoing investigation. Witnesses can contact the New Philadelphia Post directly.
As the community mourns the loss of Bobbie Jo Hart and hopes for the recovery of Keith Confer, this tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictability of our roads and the importance of vigilance behind the wheel.
The crash remains under active investigation, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.