DARKE COUNTY, OH — A second life has been lost in the aftermath of a devastating three-vehicle crash that occurred Monday morning in Darke County. The Darke County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 75-year-old James Caldwell of Dayton succumbed to his injuries on July 2 at Miami Valley Hospital.
The crash happened just after 8:00 a.m. on Monday, June 30, in the 1200 block of State Route 49 near Graw Road. Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene, where they found significant damage involving three vehicles and multiple victims with serious injuries.
Initial reports indicate that the crash involved a chain reaction of collisions, though the exact cause remains under investigation. Authorities have not yet released the full details about how the accident unfolded.
James Caldwell was among the critically injured and was airlifted to Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton shortly after the crash. Despite the efforts of medical teams, he passed away two days later due to the severity of his injuries.
Caldwell is now the second fatality resulting from the crash. The identity of the first victim, who was pronounced dead at the scene, has not yet been publicly released.
The Darke County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Ohio State Highway Patrol and other local agencies, continues to investigate the incident. Officials are reviewing witness statements and physical evidence from the crash site to determine what led to the tragic collision.
“Our hearts go out to the families affected by this heartbreaking loss,” a spokesperson for the Darke County Sheriff’s Office said. “We remain committed to uncovering the facts and offering support to those grieving during this difficult time.”
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information is urged to contact the Darke County Sheriff’s Office. More details will be shared as the investigation progresses.