CHILLICOTHE, OHIO – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred Wednesday morning on US Route 23 near milepost 17 in Green Township, Ross County.
At approximately 11:47 AM on February 26, 2025, emergency responders were alerted to the crash by the Jackson Communication Center.
According to investigators, a 2017 Toyota RAV4, driven by Scott D. Stephenson, 61, of Chillicothe, was traveling northwest when it crossed the median into the southbound lanes, colliding with a 2023 Volkswagen VNR semi driven by Jerrod M. Powell, 23, of Chillicothe. Jamie L. Stephenson, 59, of Chillicothe, was a passenger in the Toyota.
Emergency Response & Injuries
- Scott Stephenson was transported to Adena Regional Medical Center, where he was later pronounced deceased.
- Jamie Stephenson was flown by MedFlight to Grant Medical Center for treatment of her injuries.
- Jerrod Powell was treated for minor injuries and later released from Adena Medical Center.
Road Closure & Investigation
The crash resulted in a temporary shutdown of US 23 for approximately 90 minutes while emergency crews responded. Assisting agencies included:
- Ross County Sheriff’s Office
- Green Township Fire and EMS
- VA Fire and EMS
- Union Township Fire and EMS
- Ohio Department of Transportation
- Ross County Emergency Management Agency
The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the crash.
