Driver Charged After Causing 3-Vehicle Pileup on Ohio Interstate

Columbus, Ohio – Authorities have apprehended and charged the driver responsible for a multi-vehicle pileup on Interstate 71 in Columbus that occurred on April 30, 2025. The incident, captured by traffic cameras, involved a red vehicle that abruptly stopped in the middle of the interstate after missing an exit, leading to a three-car collision. The driver, who initially fled the scene, now faces charges of reckless operation of a motor vehicle with willful and wanton disregard for safety.

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) released footage of the chaotic event, which took place around 5:25 p.m. on I-71 South near the Interstate 670 exit. A red minivan was observed coming to a complete halt in the center lane, seemingly attempting to merge late into an exit lane. While two vehicles managed to stop behind it, a third vehicle failed to stop in time, rear-ending one of the stopped cars and triggering a chain reaction.

Following the crash, the driver of the red vehicle proceeded to exit the interstate, leaving the scene of the accident. Despite the lack of a clear license plate in the video, Columbus Police Freeway Patrol officers were able to identify and track down the suspect. The investigation involved narrowing down approximately 250 red minivan registrations in Franklin County, with a distinct sticker on the vehicle's rear window ultimately aiding in identification.

While no life-threatening injuries were reported among those involved in the pileup, several drivers sustained minor injuries and their vehicles incurred extensive damage. ODOT utilized the incident as a public safety warning, emphasizing the dangers of such actions. "When you are driving along a major interstate and you miss your exit do you: A) keep driving and get off at the next one or B) come to a complete stop, cause a multi-car rear-end crash and then drive away," ODOT stated on social media, adding, "HINT: The answer is NEVER B. Do not be this driver." This incident underscores a growing concern among law enforcement regarding dangerous driving behaviors, such as stopping or reversing on busy interstates.