The community is mourning the loss of 16-year-old Addison Howard from Peebles, who tragically passed away on Monday, succumbing to injuries sustained in a devastating crash that occurred just two days prior.
The incident unfolded on Saturday morning, April 20th, along State Route 73, sending shockwaves through the community. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the crash transpired around 7:20 a.m. as a 2014 Ford Focus, driven by a 17-year-old girl from Hillsboro, was navigating the southeast direction of the road. Tragically, the vehicle failed to negotiate a critical curve, careening off the road’s edge and colliding with both a mailbox and a tree.
The impact of the crash left Addison Howard and another 17-year-old passenger injured. The driver, who sustained serious injuries, was airlifted to Miami Valley Hospital for urgent medical attention. Meanwhile, the other passenger, a boy from Peebles, received treatment for his injuries at Highland District Hospital.
While the exact circumstances leading to the crash remain under investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the community has rallied in support during this trying time.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by the Highland County Sheriff’s Office, Miami Valley CareFlight, Paint Creek Fire and EMS, and the Ohio Department of Transportation, extending their support and resources to aid in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The visitation for Howard was held over the weekend at the Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home. If you would like to assist with a memorial donation to assist with funeral expenses, checks may be made payable and sent to: Ashley Howard Tolle, 103 Marble Furnace Road, Peebles, Ohio 45660. A Go-Fund-Me account has also been started to help with funeral expenses can be found by visiting: https://gofund.me/13cb3640
As the investigation continues, the community remains united in grief, cherishing memories of Addison Howard while offering solace and support to those affected by the heartbreaking loss.