Ross County, OH — In the early hours of Friday, July 25, 2025, a devastating incident claimed the life of Jeremy Taylor, a 33-year-old resident of Chillicothe, Ohio, on U.S. Route 35 in Ross County. The Ohio State Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into this fatal pedestrian crash, which has left the community grappling with grief over the loss of a young life.
The incident occurred at approximately 3:46 a.m. near milepost 18 on U.S. Route 35. A 2013 Ford F-150, driven by Bobbie J. Bonds Sr., 77, of Spring Hope, North Carolina, was traveling southeast in the eastbound lanes when it struck Taylor, who was walking in the middle of the roadway. Despite the swift response from emergency services, Taylor was pronounced deceased at the scene due to the severity of his injuries.
Emergency responders from Union Township Fire and EMS, alongside the Ross County Sheriff’s Office, Chillicothe Police Department, Ohio Department of Transportation, and Ross County Coroner’s Office, arrived promptly to assist. Bobbie J. Bonds Sr. was uninjured and cooperated fully with authorities. The eastbound lanes of U.S. Route 35 were closed for nearly three hours as investigators worked to reconstruct the scene and clear the roadway, causing significant traffic disruptions.
**A Community in Mourning**
Jeremy Taylor’s untimely death has deeply affected his family, friends, and the Chillicothe community. Described as a kind-hearted individual who faced life’s challenges with resilience, Taylor’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes and condolences across social media. Loved ones have shared memories and expressed their sorrow, calling for unity and support during this difficult time.
The tragedy has also sparked discussions about pedestrian safety and the need for improved mental health resources, particularly for individuals who may find themselves in vulnerable situations, such as walking on highways during early morning hours. Community members are advocating for increased awareness and infrastructure improvements to prevent similar incidents in the future.
**Ongoing Investigation**
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is actively investigating the circumstances of the crash. Authorities have not yet determined why Taylor was walking in the roadway at the time of the incident or whether other factors contributed. Pending toxicology reports and forensic analyses are expected to provide further clarity. As of now, no charges have been filed against the driver.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol urges anyone with information about the crash or who may have seen a pedestrian on U.S. Route 35 around 3:46 a.m. on July 25, 2025, to contact the Chillicothe Post. Eyewitness accounts could be critical to understanding the full scope of the incident.
**A Call for Reflection**
This heartbreaking event underscores the inherent dangers of high-speed highways, particularly for pedestrians. As Chillicothe mourns, Jeremy Taylor’s memory serves as a poignant reminder to prioritize road safety and extend compassion to those in need. The community hopes this tragedy will inspire meaningful action to enhance pedestrian protections and support systems.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol and assisting agencies have expressed their deepest sympathies to Jeremy Taylor’s family and loved ones. They remain committed to conducting a thorough and transparent investigation to provide answers and closure.
This case remains active, with updates expected as new information emerges.