Death toll 22 in Ohio traffic crashes over July 4th weekend, OSHP says

There were 22 people killed in 21 crashes over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reported Monday.

Impairment was a factor in at least five of the crashes, which happened between July 2 and July 5, the patrol said.

RELATED: Springfield man killed, woman critically injured in head-on crash

Troopers made 425 arrest for impaired driving and 280 for drug-related charges. Also, the patrol responded to 631 crashes and made more than 22,494 total traffic contacts, which included providing assistance to more than 2,900 motorists statewide, according to the highway patrol.

“Driving impaired remains a significant problem,” Col. Richard S. Fambro, patrol superintendent, stated. “We need motorists to commit to keeping our roads safe. Designate a sober driver.”

RELATED: 2 killed, 1 injured in Sunday crash in Madison Twp.

During last year’s Fourth of July reporting period from July 3 to July 7, there were a total of 16 fatal crashes that killed 17 people.

Motorists are encouraged to call #677 to report impaired drivers or drug activity.

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