Pemberville, OH (August 7, 2025) – One person was killed and two others were hospitalized following a head-on collision Wednesday morning in Pemberville, according to the Wood County Sheriff’s Office.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene around 11 a.m. on August 6 after receiving reports of a two-vehicle crash on State Route 105. Medics and deputies arrived quickly, working to assist those suffering from a variety of injuries as traffic was halted in both directions.
According to investigators, the crash occurred when a Chrysler Town & Country was heading westbound on SR-105 and attempted to pass another vehicle. Simultaneously, a Honda Odyssey was traveling eastbound on the same stretch of road. In an effort to avoid an imminent collision, both drivers swerved—but tragically, they moved in the same direction, resulting in a violent crash.
The front-seat passenger of the Honda, 56-year-old Estuardo Ordonez of Florida, was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. The driver of the Honda Odyssey was airlifted to Toledo Hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening. The driver of the Chrysler was transported to Bay Park Hospital for evaluation and treatment of similar non-critical injuries.
The incident remains under active investigation as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the failed passing attempt and subsequent evasive maneuvers.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Estuardo Ordonez during this deeply difficult time. We also wish those injured in the collision a smooth and full recovery.
Head-On Collisions in Ohio
The tragic crash on SR-105 in Pemberville underscores the ever-present dangers of rural highway driving and the life-altering consequences that can result from even a momentary decision. In this case, a passing attempt on a two-lane road—one of the most hazardous maneuvers a driver can make—led to a fatal head-on collision that claimed a life and seriously injured others.
State Route 105, like many two-lane rural highways across Ohio, presents limited visibility and minimal margin for error. When two vehicles traveling in opposite directions both attempt to swerve—especially without full awareness of each other’s movement—the results can be catastrophic. Here, both drivers made evasive moves to prevent impact, but because they swerved in the same direction, the outcome was tragically unavoidable.
Passing maneuvers require clear sightlines, calm judgment, and an accurate assessment of speed and distance. Unfortunately, in real-world conditions where decisions are made in seconds, these requirements are often unmet. This incident illustrates why traffic safety experts continuously warn against passing in high-speed, two-lane traffic zones—especially when opposing traffic is near.
Passenger fatalities like that of Mr. Ordonez also bring attention to the vulnerability of those not in control of the vehicle. Passengers rely fully on drivers’ decisions and road awareness. When crashes occur during overtaking or evasive maneuvers, the force of impact often affects passengers most severely.
Local investigators will now review evidence, vehicle data, and roadway factors to assess what led to the fateful decision to pass and how the collision unfolded. In the meantime, families are left mourning, and survivors begin the long process of physical and emotional recovery.
If you or a loved one were impacted by this or a similar incident, having access to experienced resources, timely information, and compassionate support can make a significant difference in navigating the aftermath.
When fatal accidents strike without warning, families are often left searching for answers and support. At Local Accident Reports, our goal is to provide both. We deliver up-to-date coverage and connect those affected with valuable tools to help during difficult times. Let us guide you through the steps ahead—because no one should have to face tragedy alone.