Clark County, OH (August 11, 2026) – A passenger lost their life, and three others were injured on Sunday night, August 9, in a two-vehicle crash at US 42 and Selma Pike in Clark County. Troopers and emergency units responded shortly after 7 p.m. to the intersection.
Investigators said a 2016 Ford Taurus was traveling north on US 42 when a 2026 Hyundai Tucson failed to stop at a stop sign on Selma Pike and struck the Taurus. The Hyundai, driven by 60-year-old Melodie Woods of Springfield, then traveled off the left side of the roadway before coming to a stop. Woods and her passenger, 67-year-old Jeff Neely of Springfield, were taken to Springfield Regional Medical Center with minor injuries.
The Taurus driver, 69-year-old Mitzie Gottfried of Cedarville, was taken to Kettering Health Greene Memorial with minor injuries. Her passenger, 79-year-old Gary Gottfried, was flown to Miami Valley Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Gary Gottfried’s family and loved ones, and we wish the injured victims a smooth recovery.
What Information Is Reviewed After a Two-Vehicle Intersection Crash?
After a serious intersection crash, investigators may review the travel paths of both vehicles and whether traffic signs or signals were followed. Vehicle damage, debris, final resting positions, and roadway evidence can help establish how the collision occurred.
Witness accounts and available video may also provide additional context. In crashes involving serious injuries or a fatality, medical findings can help document the effects of the impact. The timing of the crash and visibility at the intersection may also be reviewed when determining the sequence of events.
