The Wilmington Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is currently investigating a tragic single-vehicle traffic accident that occurred on SR 73 in Highland County on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at approximately 7:20 A.M.
The incident involved a 2014 Ford Focus driven by Briannika Tolle, 17 years old from Hillsboro. According to reports, Ms. Tolle was traveling southeast on SR 73 near Berrysville Road when she failed to negotiate a curve, causing her vehicle to veer off the roadway. Subsequently, the car struck a mailbox and a tree.
As a result of the crash, Ms. Tolle sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Miami Valley Hospital for medical treatment. Additionally, two backseat passengers, identified as Riddick Rankin, 17 years old, and Addison Howard, 15 years old, both from Peebles, were also injured in the accident.
Mr. Howard, unfortunately, succumbed to his injuries two days later, despite efforts to save him. Meanwhile, Mr. Rankin was transported to Highland District Hospital, where he received treatment for his injuries.
Assistance at the scene was provided by various agencies, including the Highland County Sheriff’s Office, Miami Valley CareFlight, Paint Creek Fire and EMS, and the Ohio Department of Transportation.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash to determine the exact cause of the tragic incident.
