SALEM, Columbiana County, Ohio, Nov. 10, 2026 — Two people were hurt on Monday, November 9, when a car struck multiple vehicles in downtown Salem, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol's Lisbon post.
The crash happened around 11 a.m. at the intersection of State Street and Broadway Avenue. A car heading westbound on East State Street reportedly struck a vehicle stopped at a red light at the Broadway Avenue intersection, then continued down the street and hit two more vehicles before hitting a parked, unoccupied car further along the road.
Two people were taken to a hospital for treatment.
The patrol said the driver of the car that struck the other vehicles was traveling at a high rate of speed and has been charged with reckless operation of a motor vehicle. A Washingtonville, Ohio man has been identified by the agency as the driver and is due to appear for arraignment at the Columbiana County Courts on November 23.
The crash remains under investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
Intersection Crashes in Ohio
This crash happened at State St and Broadway Ave in Salem, OH. Our Ohio intersections page covers intersection crashes across Ohio.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I come across a crash scene on a busy street?
Stay in your vehicle if it's unsafe to exit, turn on hazard lights, and keep well back from the scene so emergency crews have room to work. Call 911 if it appears no one has reported the crash yet.
How does speed affect the outcome of a multi-vehicle crash?
Higher speeds reduce a driver's ability to stop or steer around stopped traffic, and they increase the force involved when a vehicle strikes another car. This can turn a minor fender-bender into a chain-reaction collision involving several vehicles.
Are chain-reaction crashes common once one vehicle is already stopped or disabled?
Yes. When a vehicle is stopped at a light or already involved in a wreck, following traffic has less time to react, which can lead to additional vehicles being struck in quick succession.