COLUMBUS, Ohio — A late-night crash along Interstate 71 in Delaware County claimed the life of a 61-year-old Sunbury man, leaving authorities investigating the circumstances behind the deadly incident. The victim was identified as Jeffrey Chesney, who died Monday evening after his vehicle struck a parked commercial truck along the highway.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the crash happened around 10:19 p.m. Chesney was traveling northbound on I-71 when his vehicle suddenly drifted onto the right shoulder of the roadway. Investigators said his car then collided with the rear of a parked Freightliner commercial vehicle that was pulling a box trailer.
Troopers said the impact of the crash was severe. Chesney suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency responders arrived shortly after the collision but were unable to save him. Authorities have not released details about what may have caused Chesney to leave the travel lane, and the crash remains under active investigation.
The Freightliner truck involved in the crash was driven by a man from Indiana, according to officials. The truck driver was not injured and remained at the scene following the collision. Troopers confirmed that both Chesney and the truck driver were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.
Investigators are now working to determine the factors that led up to the deadly collision. Troopers are examining whether speed, fatigue, medical issues, or other conditions may have played a role. Officials have not said how long the commercial vehicle had been parked on the shoulder or why it was stopped at that location.
The crash has left family members and the Sunbury community mourning the sudden loss of Chesney’s life. Authorities are using the incident as a reminder for drivers to remain alert at all times, especially during nighttime hours when visibility is reduced. The Ohio State Highway Patrol said more information will be released as the investigation continues and urged anyone with relevant details to come forward.
