Authorities in Wood County are investigating a tragic early-morning crash that claimed the life of a local resident on Monday. The Wood County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the single-vehicle accident occurred in the quiet community of Montgomery Township, leaving family, friends, and neighbors mourning an unexpected loss.
According to officials, the crash happened around 5:22 a.m. at the intersection of Caskie Road and Holcomb Road, a rural area where traffic is typically light and visibility can be challenging before sunrise. Investigators say the southbound vehicle suddenly left the roadway, resulting in a severe and fatal impact.
The driver was identified as 38-year-old Adam McGiffin of Wayne, Ohio. Authorities reported that McGiffin was operating a 2021 Dodge Ram traveling south on Caskie Road when it failed to stop at a posted stop sign. After crossing the intersection, the truck continued forward, striking a guardrail before crashing into a ditch embankment. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but McGiffin was pronounced deceased at the scene. Officials also noted that he was not wearing a seatbelt—an important reminder, they said, about the lifesaving protection seatbelts can provide.
Investigators do not believe alcohol played any role in the crash. At this stage, the primary cause appears to involve the vehicle not stopping at the intersection; however, the sheriff’s office stressed that the investigation is still active. Crash reconstruction teams will examine the roadway, vehicle condition, speed, visibility, and any potential mechanical issues to determine the full sequence of events. Deputies will also evaluate whether fatigue or low-light conditions may have contributed.
Residents familiar with the area describe the intersection as typically calm, with limited traffic during early morning hours. While the roads are considered safe, locals acknowledge that rural intersections can be difficult to navigate at dawn, especially when lighting and visibility fluctuate. Officials say incidents like this highlight how quickly tragedy can occur—even on familiar routes—when something goes wrong or a moment of inattention happens.
The sheriff’s office expressed condolences to McGiffin’s family and encouraged drivers to take extra caution when traveling during early morning or late-night hours. They emphasized the ongoing importance of road safety: wearing a seatbelt, staying alert, reducing speed, and obeying posted signs. As the investigation continues, authorities will share updates once more information is confirmed. In the meantime, the community is urged to keep McGiffin’s loved ones in their thoughts during this difficult time.
