Lawrence Township, OH (June 30, 2026) – An 18-year-old man was killed in a two-vehicle crash on Sunday evening, June 28, at the intersection of County Road 103 (North Orchard Road) and Township Road 1277 (Northwood Avenue) in Lawrence Township, Tuscarawas County.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 7:53 p.m. A 2019 Ram 1500, driven by Skylar Nelson of Bolivar, was traveling on County Road 103. At the same time, a 2021 Nissan Altima, operated by 18-year-old Ridge Reichman of New Philadelphia, was traveling north on Township Road 1277.
The preliminary investigation found that the Nissan failed to yield at the stop sign at the intersection of Township Road 1277 and County Road 103. The Ram struck the Nissan on its left side, causing the car to leave the roadway on the north side of County Road 103.
Reichman was transported to Mercy Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. On the other hand, Nelson and a passenger in the Ram were not injured.
Investigators said alcohol is suspected to have been a contributing factor in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by Bolivar Fire/EMS, Strasburg EMS, the Tuscarawas County Sheriff’s Office, and Keith’s Towing.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Ridge Reichman during this difficult time.
Why Failure-to-Yield Crashes at Rural Intersections Can Be Deadly
Failure-to-yield collisions at rural intersections often result in severe side-impact crashes because vehicles on the through roadway are typically traveling at higher speeds. Drivers entering or crossing the roadway may have limited time to react when another vehicle approaches.
Seat belts remain one of the most effective safety devices in preventing ejection during a crash. Occupants who are ejected from a vehicle face a significantly higher risk of fatal or life-threatening injuries. During fatal crash investigations, authorities examine roadway evidence, vehicle damage, witness statements, and any suspected contributing factors, including impairment, to determine the sequence of events and establish the cause of the collision.
