A tragic late-night crash in Hancock County, Ohio, has claimed the life of a 51-year-old man and left a young woman injured, authorities confirmed. The deadly collision occurred on a quiet rural highway near McComb, sending shockwaves through the local community.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the crash happened around 10:04 p.m. on Thursday, March 19, 2026, along State Route 186, just south of County Road 97. Troopers from the Findlay Post, along with deputies from the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, responded quickly to the scene after receiving emergency calls reporting a serious head-on collision.
Investigators say Paul Leader, 51, of Findlay, was driving a 2018 Kia Forte southbound when, for reasons still unknown, his vehicle crossed the center line. His car then collided head-on with a 2015 Hyundai Veloster traveling northbound, driven by 23-year-old Shelby Freed of McComb. The impact was severe, leaving both vehicles badly damaged.
Emergency crews arrived to find both drivers trapped in their vehicles. Despite their efforts, Leader was pronounced dead at the scene. Freed survived the crash but sustained injuries and was transported by Hanco EMS to Blanchard Valley Hospital in Findlay for treatment. Officials have not yet released details about the extent of her injuries.
Authorities confirmed that both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, Pleasant McComb Portage Joint Fire Department/EMS, and the Hancock County Coroner. The vehicles involved were later removed by a towing service.
The crash occurred on a rural two-lane highway surrounded by farmland, a stretch of road often quiet but potentially dangerous, especially at night. Investigators are still working to determine what caused Leader’s vehicle to cross into oncoming traffic. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the sudden loss of life and hopes for the recovery of the injured driver.
