Chillicothe, OH (August 23, 2026) – A two-vehicle collision on US 35 near the Route 104 exit in Ross County left a 33-year-old Chillicothe man seriously injured on Friday afternoon, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Troopers said the man, Michael Leeth, was driving a Ford Focus westbound on US 35 when he left the left side of the roadway. His vehicle crossed the median and entered the path of oncoming traffic before striking a disabled Kenworth tractor-trailer parked on the shoulder.
The tractor-trailer was occupied by 66-year-old Michael Cravens, who was not injured. Leeth was flown by MedFlight to Grant Medical Center in Columbus for treatment of serious injuries.
Our thoughts are with Leeth as he continues to recover.
What Can Happen When a Vehicle Leaves Its Lane?
A vehicle that leaves its lane can enter a median, shoulder, or opposing traffic area and create a serious hazard. Factors such as driver control, roadway conditions, vehicle problems, and traffic patterns can affect how quickly a vehicle moves away from its intended path.
Collisions with large commercial vehicles can produce significant forces because tractor-trailers are much heavier than passenger cars. The severity of injuries may depend on the speed of the passenger vehicle, the location of impact, and whether safety equipment was used. Emergency medical treatment can vary based on the type and seriousness of the injuries.
