A devastating crash in Claridon Township, Ohio, early Wednesday morning has resulted in the tragic death of Jeff Hazen, a Chardon resident, and left another person critically injured. The incident occurred at the intersection of Route 608 and Chardon Windsor Road, around 8:35 a.m. on May 6, and has deeply affected the community.

The Fatal Crash

The crash involved a dump truck and a passenger car, and the sequence of events unfolded when a 2016 Hyundai Elantra, which was approaching from the west on Chardon Windsor Road, failed to stop at a clearly marked stop sign. As a result, the Hyundai entered the intersection without yielding the right-of-way, directly into the path of Jeff Hazen’s 1985 International Scout dump truck. Hazen, who was operating the dump truck northbound on Route 608, could not avoid the collision, and the dump truck struck the Hyundai on its driver’s side. The impact caused both vehicles to veer off the road, with the Hyundai eventually colliding with a tree, while the dump truck ran off the road and came to a stop in a ditch.

Emergency Response and Fatality

Responders from multiple agencies, including the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office, Chardon Fire and EMS, and several fire departments, including Burton and Hambden, arrived at the scene shortly after the crash. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, Hazen was pronounced dead at the scene. The force of the crash was so severe that officials believe Hazen likely died instantly from his injuries, underscoring the dangers of accidents involving large vehicles like dump trucks.

The driver of the Hyundai, whose identity has not been released, sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to Geauga Medical Center. Medical personnel are working to stabilize the individual, and updates on their condition are expected. Authorities are awaiting further reports to better understand the severity of their injuries.

Investigating the Cause

The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) has confirmed that the failure to yield at the stop sign was the primary factor leading to the collision. However, the exact cause of the crash is still under investigation. OSHP troopers are analyzing skid marks, vehicle positions, and eyewitness accounts to determine whether other factors, such as distractions, speed, or visibility issues, contributed to the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that the stop sign violation was the leading cause, but other potential causes, including driver fatigue or mechanical failure, have not been ruled out.

At this stage, authorities have not indicated whether impairment, distraction, or speed played a role in the crash. Toxicology reports, along with further analysis of vehicle data, are expected to provide more information in the coming weeks.

Community Reaction and Impact

The accident has deeply impacted the local community, especially the Chardon area, where Jeff Hazen was well-known and respected. Hazen, 67, was a longtime resident of Chardon and was known for his hard work and dedication to his community. Local friends and neighbors have begun sharing heartfelt tributes, remembering Hazen as a kind, dependable, and hard-working individual who was always there for others. His sudden passing has left a void in the local community, and his loss is being mourned by all who knew him.

Although Hazen’s death is a tragic loss, the community is also rallying around those impacted by the crash, especially Hazen’s family, who are facing the unimaginable grief of losing their loved one. Friends, family, and local residents are offering condolences and emotional support to the surviving family members. Additionally, there is an outpouring of support for the victim of the Hyundai crash, whose identity and condition remain closely monitored.

Investigation and Road Safety Concerns

The crash has raised concerns about road safety, particularly at rural intersections like Route 608 and Chardon Windsor Road, where visibility can sometimes be compromised. Officials are reminding all drivers of the importance of exercising caution, especially at intersections without traffic signals. The crash also highlights the danger of large vehicles such as dump trucks, where even a small mistake can result in devastating consequences.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol has reminded all drivers to maintain an adequate following distance, to obey traffic signals, and to remain alert when driving in rural areas. The tragic loss of Jeff Hazen serves as a reminder of the importance of safe driving habits, particularly in areas where the unexpected can happen. OSHP also emphasized the importance of paying attention to stop signs and ensuring that drivers always yield the right-of-way, especially at intersections where visibility may be limited.

Memorial and Future Steps

In the wake of this devastating accident, efforts are underway to memorialize Jeff Hazen and support his family through this incredibly difficult time. While plans for a memorial service are still being finalized, family and friends are coming together to honor his memory and support his loved ones. The Chardon community, united in grief, is showing an outpouring of support, both financially and emotionally.

The crash also raises questions about road safety, particularly when it comes to intersections in rural areas. Law enforcement officials are calling for increased driver awareness and enforcement to prevent future accidents. In light of the fatal crash, some community leaders are discussing the possibility of better signage or even traffic signals at dangerous intersections to help mitigate the risks to motorists.

Conclusion

The sudden and tragic loss of Jeff Hazen serves as a painful reminder of how quickly life can change. The fatal crash involving the dump truck and Hyundai has forever altered the lives of those who knew Hazen and his family. As the investigation continues, the community is left to grieve and reflect on the importance of safety on the road.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to seek information to ensure justice is served for Hazen and to fully understand the cause of this tragic incident. Family and friends of Jeff Hazen are left to mourn the loss of a beloved community member, and efforts to support his family during this time will continue in the coming days. The investigation remains ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

In the meantime, this crash serves as a reminder to all drivers to prioritize safety, remain vigilant, and always adhere to traffic laws, especially when traveling through intersections. The Chardon community remains strong in its support of Hazen’s family, and efforts are being made to ensure that this loss does not go unnoticed.