PAULDING COUNTY, OH — A single-vehicle crash early Sunday morning has claimed the life of 17-year-old Kaiya Klopfenstein, a beloved teenager from Defiance, Ohio, whose vibrant personality and passion for life left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
The crash occurred shortly after 1:00 a.m. on County Road 133 at State Route 111, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Van Wert Post.
Troopers say 18-year-old Tyson Ward, of Oakwood, was driving a vehicle northbound on County Road 133 when he failed to stop at the intersection with Route 111. The vehicle traveled through the intersection, veered off the left side of the roadway, and struck a tree.
Klopfenstein, a passenger in the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene. Ward sustained serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash.
The sudden loss of Kaiya has devastated her family, friends, and a wide circle of people throughout the junior billiards community, where she was known as a standout competitor and an extraordinary young woman.
“It is with an extremely heavy heart that we have heard of the passing of one of our top-level junior league players,” wrote J & S Electronics Pool Leagues & Events in a tribute posted to Facebook. “Miss Kaiya Klopfenstein was a beautiful young lady, inside and out, with such a playful innocence. She cast a large light in this dark world and never knew a stranger in the leagues or events.”
Kaiya had been a member of the junior leagues for five years, earning admiration not only for her skill at the table but also for her sportsmanship, kindness, and infectious joy. Organizers described her as a treasure to watch—someone who respected her teammates and opponents alike, and who always brought heart and energy to the game.
“She was a true sportsperson whose love of the game extended far beyond competition,” the organization wrote, extending condolences to Kaiya’s parents, Brett and Justine, and her siblings, Isaiah and Gracelynn. “The loss of such a young life is devastating to both her family and our community.”
The grief extended to the national junior billiards scene as well, where Kaiya had become a cherished part of the Junior International Championship (JIC) family.
“My heart is heavy today,” one JIC member shared. “Kaiya was the kind of young lady who lit up every room she walked into. Full of grit, heart, and joy—she brought that same energy to the table every time she competed. She was a true competitor and an even better person.”
As news of her passing spreads, tributes continue to pour in from across the region. Her memory is being honored not only by her peers but by adults and mentors who saw in her a rare light and promising future.
Grief counselors and local support networks are available for students and community members affected by her loss.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances of the crash.
In the words of one heartbroken tribute:
“Please—hug your people. Tell them you love them. Tomorrow is never promised.” 💔🕊️
Kaiya Klopfenstein will be remembered for the light she brought into every space, the strength of her spirit, and the joy she gave to everyone lucky enough to know her.