Canton Man Fatally Struck by Ohio State Highway Patrol Cruiser on I-71 in Medina County
MEDINA COUNTY, OH — A tragic incident unfolded in the early morning hours on Interstate 71 in Medina County, Ohio, when a pedestrian was fatally struck by an Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) cruiser. The pedestrian, identified as Daniel L. Westrich, a resident of Canton, was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to authorities, the fatal collision occurred in the southbound lanes of I-71 near milepost 213. Around 3:30 a.m., an OSHP trooper was traveling along the interstate when, under circumstances still under investigation, the patrol vehicle struck Westrich, who was reportedly on foot in a low-visibility area of the highway. The impact was immediate and severe. Despite swift emergency response, Westrich could not be saved.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol confirmed that the trooper involved was not injured in the crash, and no other vehicles were involved. The scene was quickly secured as investigators worked to gather evidence and determine what led to Westrich being on the highway at that hour.
The incident is currently under investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Crash Reconstruction Unit and the OSHP Office of Investigative Services. Officials have stated that the patrol car’s dash cam footage and other data sources are being reviewed to better understand the timeline of events. Toxicology reports and further assessments will also be part of the standard post-incident protocol.
Daniel L. Westrich, whose sudden passing has left his family and friends in shock, is being remembered as a kind and thoughtful individual. While details about what led to his presence on the interstate remain unclear, those who knew Daniel are mourning a life lost far too soon. He was described by loved ones as compassionate and dependable — someone who left a positive impression wherever he went.
“This is such a heartbreaking and unexpected loss,” a family member shared. “Danny was loved deeply by his family, and it’s hard to understand how something like this could happen.”
No additional injuries have been reported, and authorities have not announced any criminal charges related to the incident at this time. As the investigation continues, questions remain about whether Westrich had experienced a vehicle breakdown, was seeking help, or was dealing with a personal crisis before the collision.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol has expressed condolences to Westrich’s family and is cooperating fully with all elements of the investigation. The agency is expected to release more information once a full review of the incident is completed.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, many are reflecting on the importance of roadway safety and the unpredictable nature of life. This incident also serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers pedestrians face when walking near or along high-speed roadways, especially during the dark, early morning hours.
As Daniel’s loved ones prepare to lay him to rest, they are asking for privacy during this difficult time and for anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward to assist with the investigation.
A life ended unexpectedly on a highway that countless others travel daily — and now, a community grieves the loss of a man whose memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him best.
May Daniel L. Westrich rest in peace.