Medina County, OH (May 14, 2025) – A high-speed collision early Tuesday morning claimed the life of one man and left two others injured after a violent three-vehicle crash on State Route 94 in Wadsworth.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol reported that the crash occurred shortly before 7:00 a.m. along SR 94, also known locally as High Street. According to troopers, 23-year-old Jaden Flinders of Wooster was driving a Dodge Neon at a high rate of speed when he rear-ended a Ford Mustang.
The impact forced the Mustang off the roadway, where it struck a utility pole. After colliding with the Mustang, the Neon continued traveling left of center and slammed head-on into a northbound Ford F-250 pickup truck.
Emergency crews responded to the scene and transported Flinders to Wadsworth Rittman Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Authorities confirmed he was the sole occupant of the Dodge Neon.
The 18-year-old male driver of the Ford Mustang suffered injuries and was taken to Akron General Hospital for treatment. His condition has not been publicly released. The 37-year-old man behind the wheel of the Ford F-250 was treated at the scene and released.
Both lanes of SR 94 were closed for several hours Tuesday morning while investigators reconstructed the scene. The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate contributing factors, including speed and vehicle behavior prior to impact.
Our hearts go out to the family of Jaden Flinders and those injured in this tragic event. We hope for a full recovery for the surviving victims.
High-Speed Rear-End and Head-On Crashes in Ohio
High-speed driving remains a major contributor to fatal crashes across Ohio, particularly when it leads to secondary impacts involving multiple vehicles. Tuesday’s collision on State Route 94 is a devastating example of how speed can turn a minor error into a fatal chain reaction.
In this incident, a Dodge Neon struck a Ford Mustang from behind with such force that the Mustang was pushed off the roadway and into a utility pole. The crash didn’t end there—after that initial impact, the Neon crossed into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a Ford F-250. This sequence resulted in a fatality and injuries to two additional drivers, highlighting how dangerous uncontrolled speed becomes in shared traffic environments.
Rear-end collisions at high velocity often result in severe injuries, especially when the impacted vehicle is propelled into stationary objects like poles or trees. Additionally, when a vehicle crosses into oncoming lanes after an initial crash—as occurred here—the risks compound. Head-on impacts, particularly involving a smaller car and a larger truck like an F-250, tend to have catastrophic consequences.
State Route 94 runs through residential and commercial corridors in Medina County and is often congested during morning commuting hours. The timing of the crash, just before 7 a.m., aligns with peak traffic conditions—further increasing the potential for multi-vehicle incidents.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of why posted speed limits and safe following distances exist. Even a momentary lapse in judgment at high speed can lead to irreversible outcomes.
For victims and families affected by crashes like this, the aftermath is never easy. Medical bills, vehicle losses, investigations, and emotional recovery all require time, support, and guidance.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash caused by excessive speed or reckless driving, Local Accident Reports is here to help. We offer compassionate support and resources tailored to your situation—from finding trusted local care to understanding legal rights. Contact Local Accident Reports today to take the next step toward healing and resolution.
