In the quiet heart of Pike County, Ohio, a Sunday afternoon drive turned fatal, claiming the life of 78-year-old Wilma Taylor and leaving a community in mourning. The devastating crash, which unfolded at the bustling intersection of U.S. 23 and Route 32 in Piketon, serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the critical importance of road safety.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the tragedy struck around 1:10 p.m. on September 1, 2025, when a Kia Cadenza, driven by 79-year-old Paul Taylor of Canal Winchester, failed to yield at a stop sign while exiting U.S. 23 onto Route 32. In a heartbreaking instant, a westbound Chevrolet Silverado, driven by 34-year-old Justin T. Gill of Beaver, Ohio, collided with the sedan. The violent impact left both vehicles mangled and their occupants in peril.
Wilma Taylor, a passenger in the sedan, bore the brunt of the crash’s force. Emergency responders acted swiftly, airlifting her and Paul Taylor to Grant Medical Center in Columbus. Despite medical efforts, Wilma succumbed to her injuries, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and connection in her community. Paul remains hospitalized in critical condition, his recovery uncertain as loved ones hold vigil.
In the pickup truck, Justin Gill escaped with minor injuries, treated at the scene by first responders. A child passenger in his vehicle was transported to Adena Pike Medical Center for evaluation, thankfully sustaining only non-life-threatening injuries. The resilience of the young passenger offers a glimmer of hope amid the tragedy.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol has launched a thorough investigation to uncover the factors behind the collision. While authorities have not yet determined if speed, impairment, or other elements played a role, the incident has reignited calls for vigilance on Ohio’s roads. Emergency crews from the Seal Township Volunteer Fire Department, Piketon Police Department, and Portsmouth Ambulance Service worked tirelessly at the scene, their efforts a testament to the community’s strength in crisis.
Wilma Taylor’s passing has cast a shadow over Pike County, where friends and family remember her as a beloved figure whose kindness touched many lives. As the investigation continues, local leaders and residents alike are urging drivers to heed traffic signals and yield signs, hoping to prevent future heartbreak. In the wake of this loss, Pike County stands united, honoring Wilma’s memory by striving for safer roads and a stronger community.