OSHP investigates traffic fatality

The Mount Gilead Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred Thursday afternoon in Milford Township, Knox County.

Authorities said Thomas Stewart, 85, of Mount Vernon, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The crash happened at approximately 3:10 p.m. on Johnstown Road. According to the patrol, Stewart was driving a 2024 Hyundai Tucson northeast on Johnstown Road when his vehicle crossed the center line, drove off the left side of the roadway, and struck a tree.

Stewart was not wearing a seatbelt, investigators said.The Ohio State Highway Patrol received assistance at the scene from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, Mount Vernon Police Department, and Mount Vernon Fire Department.

The crash remains under investigation.