PLEASANT TWP., Ohio — A tragic single-vehicle crash claimed the life of a 33-year-old man Friday morning in Van Wert County, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The deadly incident happened in Pleasant Township and has prompted renewed warnings from troopers about impaired driving, seat belt use, and winter road conditions.
The Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol said the crash occurred at approximately 10:31 a.m. on January 16 along Marsh Road near U.S. Route 224. Troopers were dispatched after reports that a vehicle had left the roadway and struck a utility pole. Emergency crews arrived to find a heavily damaged car and a driver with critical injuries.
Preliminary findings show that a 2007 Ford Focus, driven by Jarett Catlin, 33, of Scott, was traveling northbound on Marsh Road at the time of the crash. Investigators say the vehicle traveled off the left side of the roadway, causing the driver to lose control. The car then slid across the center line and went off the right side of the road.
The Ford Focus struck a utility pole, causing severe damage. Catlin suffered fatal injuries as a result of the impact and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities confirmed that no other vehicles were involved in the crash, and there were no additional injuries reported.
Troopers say Catlin was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. In addition, alcohol impairment is believed to be a factor, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Officials also noted that snow-covered roadways may have contributed to the loss of control, though the exact sequence of events is still being reviewed.
Several agencies assisted at the scene, including the Van Wert Police Department, Van Wert County Coroner’s Office, Van Wert EMS and Fire Department, Van Wert County EMA, CERT, Gideon’s Towing, and AEP Power. As the investigation continues, troopers are reminding motorists to always wear seat belts, never drive while impaired, and reduce speed during winter conditions. The crash remains under active investigation, and additional details may be released as they become available.
