Lexington man killed in traffic crash in Wayne County

GREEN TOWNSHIP   A Lexington, Ky., man was killed in a crash after his vehicle collided with a semi-tractor tanker at about 3:51 a.m. Aug. 24. 

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating the two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred along State Route 585 south of Fox Lake Road in Green Township. 

Teague W. Curless, 21, of Lexington, Kentucky was operating a 2004 Toyota Solara. He was pronounced dead at Aultman Orrville Hospital, according to a news release. 

Daniel R. White, 71, of Smithville, was operating a 2017 Mack semi–tractor tanker. Both men were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the crash. 

Initial investigation revealed White was traveling north on State Route 585, the news release states. Curless was traveling south on State Route 585 and was attempting to pass a semi–tractor trailer when he struck White head on. After impact, both vehicles came to final rest off the south side of the roadway. 

Assisting on scene were the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, Smithville Police Department, Orrville Fire/EMS, and North End Garage. The crash remains under investigation. Alcohol and/or drugs do appear to be a factor at this time. 

This is the eighth fatal crash in Wayne County this year.