75-Year-Old James Caldwell of Dayton Dies Following Three-Vehicle Crash in Darke County, Ohio
DARKE COUNTY, OH — A fatal three-vehicle collision on the morning of Monday, June 30, 2025, has claimed the life of James Caldwell, 75, of Dayton. Emergency responders were dispatched to State Route 49 near Graw Road in Monroe Township around 8:10 a.m. to respond to a reported head-on crash involving three vehicles .
🚗 The Crash and Timeline
Authorities from the Darke County Sheriff’s Office determined that a silver 2011 Hyundai Genesis, driven by 27-year-old Da’Sika Verdell of Dayton, attempted to pass a semi-truck traveling southbound on SR 49. During the maneuver, the Hyundai drifted into the northbound lane and collided head-on with a black 2014 Ford F‑150 driven by Caldwell
The impact forced the Hyundai to spin into the southbound lane, where a 2020 Chevrolet Traverse driven by Michelle Bilbrey of Miamisburg collided with its rear. Verdell, her passenger, and Caldwell were extracted by first responders using mechanical tools and transported to Miami Valley Hospital with severe injuries
💔 Casualties and Aftermath
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Da’Sika Verdell, 27, succumbed to her injuries on Monday at the hospital.
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James Caldwell passed away two days later, on Wednesday, July 2, at the same facility .
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The driver and passenger in the Traverse suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene and released
📚 Response and Investigation
The Darke County Accident Reconstruction Team, local fire departments, rescue squads, and Miami Valley medical services responded to the scene. SR 49 was closed for approximately three hours during the incident response and cleanup The investigation remains active, with authorities examining factors such as speed and possible impairment
🕊️ Remembering James Caldwell
Caldwell, a longtime resident of Dayton, was remembered by family and friends as a devoted father, grandfather, and pillar of his community. His unexpected death has deeply impacted those who knew him. A funeral service honoring his life is expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.
🚦 A Reminder for Motorists
This tragic accident underscores the risks associated with passing on two-lane highways, especially near large commercial trucks. Authorities are urging drivers to use extreme caution and patience, prioritizing safety for all road users.
If you witnessed the crash or have any relevant information, please contact the Darke County Sheriff’s Office.
Our deepest condolences go out to the families of James Caldwell and Da’Sika Verdell during this profoundly difficult time.