Crawford Township, OH (February 21, 2026) – A truck driver was killed after being struck by a passing semi while standing outside his disabled vehicle along US-23 in Wyandot County late on February 19. The crash happened in the southbound lanes near TR-103 at approximately 10:25 p.m., according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Officials say 37-year-old Martin Montoya had pulled over to the right shoulder after his semi became disabled. While standing near the left side of his truck with the side access panel open, another semi traveling in the right lane struck Montoya.
Emergency units responded to the scene, but Montoya was pronounced dead on site. The driver of the second semi was transported to a local hospital with possible minor injuries.
Authorities stated that drugs and alcohol are not suspected in the crash. Both trucks remained at the scene during the investigation.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We extend our sincere condolences to the deceased’s family.
How Roadside Stops Can Become Dangerous for Truck Drivers
When semi trucks in Ohio experience mechanical issues, drivers often have no choice but to stop on the shoulder, sometimes in low-light or high-speed areas like US-23. While these stops are often necessary, they carry increased risk due to the limited space between moving traffic and parked vehicles.
Standing near the white line or outside the vehicle can be especially dangerous, as passing traffic may drift or fail to notice obstacles in time. In cases like this, even the open panel of a parked truck can increase exposure to impact from wider or taller vehicles.
Truck drivers are encouraged to use hazard lights, reflective gear, and triangles when making emergency stops. However, visibility and driver awareness from others remain critical in preventing these tragic incidents on high-speed highways.
