COLUMBUS, OH (WOWO) The Ohio State Highway Patrol reported nine fatal crashes on Ohio roadways during the 2025-2026 New Year’s holiday, provisional statistics show. The reporting period ran from midnight Wednesday, December 31, 2025, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, January 4, 2026. At least one fatality occurred where a safety belt was available but not used.

Troopers made 4,470 traffic enforcement contacts during the five-day period, including 238 OVI arrests, 297 citations for distracted driving, and 469 safety belt violations. Franklin County had the highest number of incidents, recording 464 contacts, followed by Lorain, Mahoning, and Medina counties.

The Highway Patrol encouraged Ohioans to continue using #677 to report dangerous or impaired drivers, as well as suspected drug activity. The agency also noted that the statistical analysis provides insight into enforcement trends over the holiday period.

Motorists are reminded to wear seat belts, avoid impaired or distracted driving, and comply with traffic laws to reduce the risk of serious crashes.