EATON, Preble County, Ohio, Nov. 5, 2026 — A 91-year-old Eaton woman died on Tuesday evening, November 3, after the car she was riding in left the road on a curve on Fisher-Twin Road and struck a tree. Two others in the vehicle were hospitalized, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The crash happened around 6:41 p.m. on Fisher-Twin Road in Preble County, the Highway Patrol said. Troopers found that a 2003 Honda CR-V was heading westbound when it ran off the roadway at a curve, crossed through a yard, and hit a tree.
The rear-seat passenger, identified as Chie Demeter of Eaton, was pronounced dead at the scene by medics. The driver and a front-seat passenger, both 83, were taken to a hospital following the crash; the extent of their injuries has not been released.
No cause has been attributed to the crash in available reporting. The Highway Patrol's investigation remains open, and official findings on what caused the vehicle to leave the roadway have not been issued.
Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased.
More on Crashes in Eaton, OH
This fatal crash happened on Twin Road in Eaton, OH. We cover crashes across Preble County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Preble County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a crash more likely to turn fatal?
Factors such as the speed of travel, whether seat belts were worn, the angle and type of impact, and how quickly emergency crews can reach the scene all affect the chances of survival. Crashes that involve a vehicle leaving the road and hitting a fixed object, like a tree, tend to carry a higher risk of serious injury or death.
How much does speed affect the chances of survival?
Higher speeds give a driver less time to react and increase the force of impact. Even a modest increase in speed can significantly raise the risk of death in a crash, especially in collisions with trees, poles, or other solid objects.
Why does wearing a seat belt matter so much?
A seat belt keeps occupants from being thrown within or out of the vehicle during a crash, which lowers the risk of severe head, chest, and internal injuries. Rear-seat passengers, in particular, face higher injury risks when unbelted.
What should a family do after a loved one dies in a crash?
Families can request a copy of the official crash report from the investigating agency once it's finalized, since initial reports released to the media are usually preliminary. It can also help to keep records of any communications with police, hospitals, or insurers in the days following the crash.
