Ohio State Highway Patrol responded to a fatal traffic collision in Blue Creek Township, Paulding County, on November 30, 2023, at approximately 9:27 A.M. The incident occurred at the intersection of State Route 114 and County Road 87, near Haviland.
Sixteen-year-old Hayden Matthew Smith, a resident of Rossburg, Ohio, was driving south on County Road 87 when he reportedly failed to adhere to the posted stop sign at the intersection with State Route 114. Smith, operating a 1991 Ford F-150, proceeded through the intersection, colliding with the trailer of a westbound 2017 Volvo semi driven by Gary G. Ballenger, 54, from Oakwood, Ohio.
Tragically, Hayden Smith succumbed to his injuries in the collision. The Allen County Coroner’s Office pronounced his passing after he was transported from the scene to Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Fortunately, Mr. Ballenger did not sustain any injuries in the collision.
Hayden Smith, identified as a student of Versailles High School through his social media profile, was involved in the fatal incident.
Multiple agencies extended their support and assistance following the accident. The Ohio Department of Transportation, Gideon’s Towing & Recovery, John’s Towing & Repair, Scott Fire & EMS, and the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office all provided aid to the Ohio State Highway Patrol during the investigation.
The devastating collision resulting in the loss of Hayden Smith’s life has deeply impacted the local community, prompting an outpouring of condolences and support for his family and friends during this difficult time.
