MONTPELIER, Williams County, Ohio, Nov. 13, 2026 — A Michigan man died, and a child was hospitalized after a crash on Thursday morning, November 12, on State Route 576 in Bridgewater Township, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The crash happened around 10 a.m. when a pickup truck headed northbound on SR 576 reportedly crossed the center line and struck two trees. The driver, identified as 27-year-old Patrick Stevens of Camden, Michigan, died at the scene.
A child who was riding in the truck was taken to a hospital with minor injuries, the Highway Patrol said. The agency has not released further details on what caused the vehicle to leave its lane. The crash remains under investigation.
We are deeply sorry for the loss suffered by the victim's family.
Local Crash Information for Montpelier, OH
The fatal crash was reported on State Route 576 in Montpelier. For more crash news from the area, see our latest Williams County crash news.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a fatal crash investigation usually take?
Investigators typically need several weeks to months to review the scene, vehicle data, and any toxicology results before issuing a final report.
How does impairment factor into fatal crashes?
Alcohol or drug use can slow reaction time and affect a driver's ability to stay in a lane, though any role it played here has not been confirmed by the Highway Patrol.
Where do fatal crashes like this tend to happen?
Rural, two-lane highways with higher speeds and no median barrier, like SR 576, see a large share of fatal single-vehicle crashes.
What makes a crash more likely to be fatal?
Higher speeds, lack of seatbelt use, and striking fixed objects such as trees or poles all raise the chance that a crash results in death.
