The town of Swanton sits heavy with grief after the sudden loss of 26-year-old Alysa Stafford, who died in a single-vehicle crash late Tuesday night in Henry County. According to the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred at approximately 11:14 p.m. on County Road 424 near County Road 2B in Washington Township.
Investigators say Alysa was travelling westbound alone when her vehicle left the roadway and crashed. Responding first-responder teams attempted life-saving measures, but she was pronounced dead at the scene. She was the sole occupant of the vehicle.
Authorities revealed that she was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Though the cause of the accident remains under investigation, officials say they have not yet determined whether speed or impairment played a role.
Those who knew Alysa describe a young woman bursting with warmth and joy — someone whose contagious smile lit up a room and whose laughter offered comfort to others. “She had a heart of gold,” a close friend reflected. “Alysa loved deeply, laughed easily, and made everyone around her feel like family. It’s so hard to believe she’s really gone.”
As the news spread, the outpouring of tributes across social media was immediate. Friends and acquaintances shared photographs, memories and heartfelt messages — each revealing the positive mark she left on the lives she touched. The community’s response speaks to the impact of her 26 years.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Sheriff’s Office has issued a reminder: buckle up and stay alert behind the wheel. Even small lapses — like skipping a seatbelt — can lead to devastating outcomes. The emphasis is on prevention, because grief like this is avoidable.
Her family, friends and the people of Swanton now face the painful task of saying goodbye. They request prayers and space to grieve as they honour her memory. While Alysa’s life has ended far too soon, her spirit — compassionate, bright, full of love — remains immovable in the hearts of those she knew and loved.