Westfield Twp, OH (August 11, 2025) – A deadly crash occurred Sunday morning on I-71 northbound in Westfield Township, claiming the life of a 52-year-old Painesville woman and leaving another person injured. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the incident took place when a northbound Chrysler 200 traveling at a high rate of speed sideswiped a Ford F-250 towing a fifth wheel trailer.
The impact caused the Ford to lose control, detach from the trailer, and overturn before going over a bridge embankment. The vehicle landed on railroad tracks below and caught fire. The passenger, identified as Tracy Hodgkinson, was ejected and flown by Life Flight to Akron City Hospital, where she later died from her injuries. The driver, 41-year-old Benjamin Hodgkinson of Painesville, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to the same hospital.
The 19-year-old Akron driver of the Chrysler was uninjured. A third vehicle, a Honda Odyssey, sustained minor damage from debris. The crash remains under investigation, and no charges have been filed at this time. I-71 was closed in both directions for approximately 90 minutes while crews responded to the scene.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Tracy Hodgkinson, and we hope for the recovery of those injured.
Car Accidents in Ohio
High-speed collisions on interstate highways like I-71 often have severe consequences due to the force of impact and the potential for secondary hazards such as vehicle fires. The combination of speed, heavy vehicles, and traffic congestion can create dangerous conditions in a matter of seconds.
When crashes involve vehicles hauling trailers, the risk of rollovers and catastrophic damage increases significantly. Safety officials encourage drivers to maintain safe speeds, avoid aggressive lane changes, and allow ample space when traveling near large vehicles.
Local Accident Reports urges motorists to exercise caution and remain alert on Ohio’s highways to help prevent serious and fatal collisions.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a major vehicle crash, contact Local Accident Reports today to connect with resources and support that can assist in recovery and help protect your rights.
