WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, OH — Authorities in Holmes County are investigating a tragic single-vehicle crash that claimed the life of a 57-year-old Danville man on the morning of Tuesday, July 22, 2025. According to Sheriff Tim Zimmerly, the fatal incident occurred at approximately 10:27 a.m. along State Route 39, just east of Township Road 455 in Washington Township. The victim has been identified as Travis D. Jones, who was pronounced dead at the scene by Western Holmes EMS personnel.
Crash Details
Preliminary findings indicate that Jones was operating a 2009 Ford F-250 Super Duty truck while towing a 2019 Goose Neck Trailer. Authorities say Jones had just completed loading items at a business in the Loudonville Industrial Park and was traveling south on Banks Avenue.
As he approached the intersection with State Route 39, Jones reportedly failed to stop. His truck and trailer crossed the highway at speed, veered off the road, entered a private yard, and collided with a creek embankment. The force of the impact caused significant damage to the vehicle and trailer, and emergency responders were called to the scene immediately.
Safety Factors and Ongoing Investigation
Investigators noted that Travis Jones was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash—an unfortunate detail that may have contributed to the severity of the incident. Sheriff Zimmerly further stated that Holmes County Coroner Dr. Leon Miller is expected to order a formal autopsy to determine if a medical emergency, fatigue, or other impairments may have played a role.
The possibility of a medical episode is being actively considered as a contributing factor, given the otherwise routine nature of the drive and the suddenness of the crash.
Multi-Agency Response
A coordinated emergency response effort was launched, with the following agencies assisting at the scene:
- Western Holmes Fire and EMS
- Loudonville Police Department
- Loudonville Fire and EMS
- Holmes County Coroner’s Office
Personnel worked diligently to secure the scene, document evidence, and begin the accident reconstruction process. State Route 39 remained partially closed for a time while crews worked and investigators assessed the wreckage.
Remembering Travis D. Jones
While details about Jones’s personal life have not been publicly released, the Danville community is already beginning to feel the weight of this loss. Travis D. Jones is remembered by those who knew him as a hardworking, down-to-earth man with deep ties to the area.
Friends and acquaintances have begun to share condolences on social media, reflecting on the shock of the incident and the importance of safety and awareness on rural roads like State Route 39.
What Happens Next
The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into the crash. Deputies will be reviewing the autopsy results, mechanical conditions of the truck and trailer, potential surveillance footage from nearby properties, and additional witness statements to form a full picture of what happened.
At this time, no foul play is suspected, but the final determination will depend on the autopsy and further findings.
A Tragic Reminder
This fatal crash serves as a somber reminder of the importance of seatbelt use and cautious driving—especially when operating large vehicles and towing equipment. It also highlights the unpredictable nature of roadway incidents and the need for thorough post-accident investigations.
As the community mourns the passing of Travis D. Jones, authorities remain committed to uncovering all the facts behind the tragedy in hopes of preventing similar incidents in the future.
If more details become available—such as funeral arrangements, tributes from family, or official findings from the coroner’s report—they can be added to a follow-up memorial or public safety notice. Let me know if you’d like help creating one.
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