Dalton, OH (February 7, 2026) – A deadly two-vehicle crash early Friday morning claimed the life of a 30-year-old Dalton woman along State Route 241, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Troopers say the crash occurred near milepost 4 around 7:36 a.m. when the woman, driving a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, lost control on a slight curve, crossed the center line, and collided with a northbound Ford van. Both vehicles exited the east side of the roadway and came to rest in a ditch. The driver of the Cruze, identified as Ina M. Wengerd, was wearing her seat belt but was pronounced dead at the scene. The van’s driver, 27-year-old Zeferino Navarro Vasquez of Canton, was also belted and did not suffer injuries. Emergency crews from the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Paint Township Fire and EMS, the Wayne County Coroner’s Office, and Star American Towing all responded to the scene. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the collision.
Key Details
- Reported: February 6, at 7:36 a.m.
- Location: State Route 241 near milepost 4, Wayne County
- Vehicles Involved: 2012 Chevrolet Cruze and 2007 Ford EC3 Van
- Fatality: Ina M. Wengerd, 30, of Dalton, pronounced dead at the scene
- Other Driver: Zeferino Navarro Vasquez, 27, of Canton, uninjured
- Responding Agencies: Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Paint Twp Fire and EMS, Wayne County Coroner, Star American Towing
What We Know So Far
- The crash took place on a slight curve along SR 241, near milepost 4.
- Wengerd’s Chevrolet Cruze crossed the center line into the path of a northbound van.
- Both vehicles veered into a ditch on the east side of the road following the collision.
- Seat belts were worn by both drivers at the time of impact.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Whether slippery pavement or road conditions played a role
- Whether the vehicle malfunction contributed to the loss of control
- If speed or driver fatigue were contributing factors
Local Context
Suburban connectors near SR 241 in Wayne County handle a mix of through traffic and neighborhood access. Injury accident responses often involve short-term lane adjustments as agencies work to document the scene and provide aid.
What to Do Next
- Remain at the scene and follow instructions from first responders.
- Provide basic information to responders when asked.
- Write down the time and location while the details are fresh.
- Monitor symptoms later and seek care if anything changes.
FAQ
Q: Why can injuries show up hours or days after an accident?
A: Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms immediately. It’s important to seek medical attention even if you feel fine at first.
Q: Why do intersection accidents happen so frequently?
A: Intersections involve multiple traffic movements at once, increasing the risk of errors such as misjudged turns, red-light running, or failure to yield.
Q: What do responders usually do first at an injury accident scene?
A: First responders prioritize medical care, assess hazards, and secure the area to prevent further injuries or crashes.
