CLAY TOWNSHIP, Ohio – A 26-year-old police sergeant died Friday morning after a collision involving his patrol vehicle at an intersection in Ottawa County, Ohio, while he was responding to a separate traffic crash, authorities said.
Sgt. Jacob Roesler of the Clay Township Police Department was traveling south on State Route 51 in a Ford Explorer cruiser with emergency lights activated when the collision occurred at approximately 6:37 a.m. at the intersection of State Route 51 and State Route 795, according to information released by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Investigators said a Chevrolet Tahoe struck Roesler’s cruiser as it entered the intersection. The impact sent both vehicles off the southeast corner of the roadway. The police vehicle struck a metal pole, while the Tahoe hit a telephone pole.
Roesler was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the highway patrol. The driver of the other vehicle, a 41-year-old man from Perrysburg, was transported to ProMedica Bay Park Hospital with minor injuries.
The crash remains under investigation. Authorities have not announced a final determination of the circumstances that led to the collision.
The Clay Township Police Department confirmed Roesler’s death in a statement, describing him as a dedicated public servant who had served the department for three years. The department also extended its thoughts to his family, friends and fellow officers as they cope with the loss.
The incident occurred amid a separate crash response on State Route 51 that morning. Officials reported road closures while emergency crews and investigators worked at the scene, with motorists advised to use caution and follow detours.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is leading the investigation, with assistance from local law enforcement and emergency agencies.
This report is based on information attributed to law enforcement and local reporting. Further details may be released as the investigation progresses.