Canton Man, 27, Fatally Struck by Ohio State Highway Patrol Cruiser on I-71 in Medina County
MEDINA COUNTY, OH — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in the early hours of Sunday, July 20, 2025, when a 27-year-old pedestrian was struck and killed by an Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) cruiser along Interstate 71 in Medina County. Authorities have identified the victim as Daniel L. Westrich, a resident of Canton, Ohio. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The fatal incident occurred at approximately 3:30 a.m. in the southbound lanes of I-71, near mile marker 213. According to initial reports from the OSHP, a trooper was on patrol when their cruiser struck Daniel, who was on foot in the traffic lanes at the time. Weather and visibility conditions during the early morning hours may have played a role in the collision, though those details are still under investigation.
First responders arrived quickly, but despite efforts to render aid, Daniel was found to have suffered fatal injuries and could not be revived. No additional injuries were reported, and the trooper involved was unharmed in the crash. The incident remains under active investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Crash Reconstruction Unit and its Office of Investigative Services.
At this time, it remains unclear why Westrich was walking on the interstate — a high-speed roadway where pedestrian traffic is both uncommon and extremely dangerous. Authorities have not yet determined whether he was experiencing a vehicle issue, was attempting to seek help, or if other factors contributed to his presence on the road. Toxicology results and autopsy findings are pending, and investigators are also reviewing dash camera footage from the patrol car.
As word of Daniel’s death spread, shock and sorrow rippled through his hometown of Canton and among those who knew and loved him. Described by friends and family as compassionate, intelligent, and soft-spoken, Daniel had a gentle spirit and a genuine kindness that made him easy to love and hard to forget.
“He had a heart of gold,” said one family member. “He always looked out for people, even if it meant putting his own needs aside. This loss is something we’ll never fully understand.”
Daniel’s passing has also sparked conversation around mental health, road safety, and the need for increased public awareness about the dangers pedestrians face, especially on highways. Advocacy groups are calling for improvements in roadside assistance services and more robust safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol has extended its condolences to the Westrich family and emphasized its commitment to transparency and thoroughness in the ongoing investigation. While no foul play is suspected, authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or seen Daniel in the moments leading up to the crash to come forward with information.
Funeral arrangements for Daniel L. Westrich are currently being planned by his family, who are requesting privacy as they navigate this unimaginable grief. A GoFundMe page has been established to help cover funeral and memorial expenses and to honor Daniel’s life in a meaningful way.
This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of how quickly life can change — how one quiet morning can alter the lives of a family forever. As loved ones remember Daniel and mourn his untimely passing, the hope remains that his story will inspire greater caution, empathy, and care on the road and beyond.
May Daniel L. Westrich be remembered for his light, his love, and the lasting impression he made during his too-short time on this earth.