Danville Man, 57, Dies in Tragic Crash After Medical Episode on State Route 39

**WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, OH** — A devastating single-vehicle crash on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, claimed the life of 57-year-old Travis D. Jones of Danville in Holmes County. The incident, which occurred at approximately 10:27 a.m. along State Route 39 near Township Road 455 in Washington Township, has left the community in mourning and authorities searching for answers.
**Crash Details
According to the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office, Travis D. Jones was driving a 2009 Ford F-250 Super Duty truck while towing a 2019 Goose Neck Trailer. Jones had just loaded items at a business in the Loudonville Industrial Park and was traveling south on Banks Avenue. As he approached the intersection with State Route 39, his vehicle failed to stop, crossed the highway at speed, veered off the roadway, and entered a private yard before colliding with a creek embankment. The impact caused extensive damage to both the truck and trailer, and Jones was pronounced dead at the scene by Western Holmes EMS personnel.
**Safety Factors and Ongoing Investigation
Preliminary investigations revealed that Jones was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, a factor that may have contributed to the fatal outcome. Sheriff Tim Zimmerly noted that the Holmes County Coroner’s Office, led by Dr. Leon Miller, has ordered a formal autopsy to explore potential contributing factors, including the possibility of a medical emergency, fatigue, or other impairments. Authorities are considering whether an unforeseen health issue may have caused Jones to lose control, given the otherwise routine circumstances of the drive.
The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a thorough investigation, which includes reviewing the mechanical condition of the truck and trailer, analyzing potential surveillance footage from nearby properties, and gathering witness statements. At this time, no foul play is suspected, but a final determination awaits the autopsy results and additional findings.
**Multi-Agency Response
The response to the crash involved a coordinated effort by multiple agencies, including:
– Western Holmes Fire and EMS
– Loudonville Police Department
– Loudonville Fire and EMS
– Holmes County Coroner’s Office
These teams worked together to secure the scene, provide emergency services, and initiate the accident reconstruction process. State Route 39 was partially closed for several hours as investigators documented evidence and cleared the wreckage.
**Remembering Travis D. Jones
Travis D. Jones was a well-known member of the Danville community, remembered for his hardworking nature and strong ties to the area. While personal details about his life remain private, friends and neighbors have begun sharing heartfelt condolences on social media, expressing their grief and reflecting on the suddenness of the tragedy. Many have highlighted Jones’s down-to-earth personality and his contributions to the close-knit community.
The loss has sparked discussions about the importance of road safety, particularly on rural routes like State Route 39, where heavy vehicles and trailers are common.
**What Happens Next
The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office is committed to uncovering the full circumstances of the crash. Investigators are awaiting autopsy results and continuing to examine all available evidence to determine the exact cause of the incident. Updates will be provided as new information, such as official coroner findings or mechanical reports, becomes available.
**A Tragic Reminder
This heartbreaking incident underscores the critical importance of seatbelt use, especially when operating large vehicles or towing equipment. It also serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of roadway accidents and the need for comprehensive investigations to prevent future tragedies.
As the Danville community grieves the loss of Travis D. Jones, authorities encourage drivers to prioritize safety and remain vigilant on the roads. The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office and local agencies extend their deepest condolences to Jones’s family and friends during this difficult time.