Moorefield Twp, OH (May 18, 2025) – Emergency responders were quick to the scene, providing care to the injured victims after a tragic crash involving two vehicles and a pedestrian on Urbana Rd near Eagle City Rd in Clark County. The collision occurred around 1:53 p.m., prompting immediate assistance from multiple local and state agencies.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP), a 2008 Chevrolet Aveo had come to a stop along the right shoulder of the northbound lane. Its driver, identified as 36-year-old Michael Wise, had exited the vehicle and was standing near it at the time of the incident. As he stood on the shoulder, a red 2002 Chevrolet Silverado, traveling northbound and driven by 50-year-old Jason Milliner, veered off the roadway and onto the shoulder. The Silverado struck both Wise and the parked Aveo.
Sadly, Michael Wise was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. Milliner sustained minor injuries in the crash and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Emergency responders from Moorefield Township Fire Department and EMS, as well as personnel from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, Clark County Coroner’s Office, and Dan’s Towing, worked collaboratively at the scene. OSHP has launched a formal investigation into the cause of the crash.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this accident.
Pedestrian Crashes and Roadside Safety in Ohio
Pedestrian crashes, especially those involving vehicles veering off the roadway, remain a significant concern in Ohio. The incident on Urbana Rd tragically illustrates the danger faced by individuals who exit their vehicles on the shoulder of busy roads. According to recent data from the Ohio Department of Public Safety, nearly 140 pedestrians lost their lives on Ohio roads in 2023, with a notable percentage occurring on high-speed rural and suburban routes.
This specific crash underscores several critical safety issues. First, the risk to pedestrians—even those not crossing a roadway—is heightened when drivers fail to maintain proper lane discipline. Second, the incident reflects a broader pattern seen in similar cases, where momentary inattention or impairment can lead to devastating outcomes.
For drivers, this serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining control and staying alert, especially in areas where breakdowns or emergency stops may place individuals in vulnerable roadside positions. For those experiencing vehicle trouble, it’s critical to pull as far off the road as safely as possible, remain in the vehicle if safe, and utilize hazard lights while contacting roadside assistance.
Legal consequences for drivers who leave their lane and cause pedestrian injuries or fatalities can be severe. Depending on the findings of the investigation, charges may be considered under Ohio’s vehicular manslaughter or reckless operation statutes. Additionally, families of victims have the right to pursue civil claims for wrongful death, which can help address the financial and emotional impacts of such tragedies.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.