(OH) Trooper killed in fatal crash on State Route 11 near Canfield
CANFIELD -- The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) is investigating a multi-vehicle crash that killed a trooper.
Responders were on the site of a fatal crash on State Route 11 near Canfield around 1 p.m.
According to a press release from OSHP, Trooper Nicholas Cayton responded to Route 11 shortly before noon for reports of a disabled tractor-trailer in the right lane.
While on the scene, Cayton was sitting in his cruiser with his emergency lights on when a 2007 Mack Granite truck, driven by 35-year-old Ryan Rach, crashed into the back of the cruiser, causing it to go forward into the back of the disabled tractor-trailer and strike the driver who was in the roadway.
The driver of the tractor-trailer was identified as 65-year-old Nelson Vasquez of Florida.
Cayton was pronounced dead at the scene. Meanwhile, Vasquez was flown to the hospital for treatment, but OSP did not specify his condition. Rach was not injured.
At this point it is unclear if Rach will face any charges.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost released the following statement on Cayton's death:
"In service and sacrifice, Trooper Cayton honored the badge and fulfilled his sacred oath to the community. My deepest condolences are with the friends, family and colleagues of this fallen hero."
Additionally, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has ordered all flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Cayton.
All lanes were closed at the time on State Route 11 in the northbound and southbound directions beyond State Route 46 and Columbiana Canfield Road, according to ohgo.com.
No time had been indicated for when the road would reopen, but a trooper on scene told 21 News it would be closed for "a considerable amount of time."
As of 8:50 a.m. on Friday, all lanes of State Route 11 in the area have been reopened to motorists.
A 21 News crew member saw a hazmat crew drive towards the scene.
A photo sent in from the scene shows many vehicles backed up on State Route 11, with emergency response vehicles with lights flashing in the background.
This is a developing story. Stay connected on air and online for more updates as they become available.
A photo sent in from the scene shows many vehicles backed up on State Route 11, with emergency response vehicles with lights flashing in the background.
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