The Chillicothe community is mourning the tragic loss of 45-year-old Jolayne C. Blake, who lost her life in a devastating pedestrian crash early Saturday morning in Ross County. Family members, friends, and loved ones are now left grieving a sudden tragedy that has deeply impacted many throughout the community.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the fatal incident occurred on May 16, 2026, along U.S. 35 near mile marker 3 in Concord Township. Troopers from the Chillicothe Post responded after the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Jackson Communication Center received a report at approximately 8:27 a.m. regarding an object located along the side of the highway. When emergency personnel arrived at the scene, investigators discovered that a deadly vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash had occurred.
Authorities said a 2021 Kia K5, driven by 28-year-old Paitaan White of Chillicothe, was traveling northwest on U.S. 35 when it struck a pedestrian walking in the roadway. Investigators later identified the pedestrian as Jolayne C. Blake of Chillicothe. Due to the severity of the injuries she sustained in the collision, Blake was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Officials confirmed that the driver of the Kia was not injured in the crash. Following the incident, Haller Funeral Home transported Blake’s body to the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office. Troopers remained at the scene for an extended period while conducting a detailed on-site investigation and documenting evidence connected to the fatal collision.
Authorities temporarily closed portions of the roadway as crash investigators worked to reconstruct the events leading up to the tragedy. Emergency crews and troopers carefully examined the scene before eventually reopening the highway once their initial investigation was completed. Officials have not yet released additional information regarding possible contributing factors involved in the crash.
As the Ohio State Highway Patrol continues investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision, the Chillicothe community is left mourning the loss of Jolayne C. Blake and reflecting on the fragile nature of life. Loved ones are remembering her through the memories she shared and the impact she had on those around her. Though her life ended tragically, her memory will continue living on in the hearts of family, friends, and all who knew her.
