Morrow County: The Mount Gilead Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred on Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at approximately 5:22 AM. The crash occurred on Interstate 71 near milepost 149 in Chester Township.
Michael Ferrazza, age 27, of Brecksville, Ohio, was operating a black 2012 Hyundai Tucson northbound on Interstate 71. Corey Bodenhamer, age 32, of Fairview Park, Ohio was operating a white 2018 Peterbilt semi-tractor with double trailers northbound on Interstate 71 when he struck the rear of Mr. Ferrazza’s vehicle. Both vehicles continued off the roadway and went through the median cable barrier into the southbound lanes. Edward Bayer, age 67, of Lexington, Ohio, was operating a black 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo southbound on Interstate 71 and struck Mr. Ferrazza’s vehicle.
Mr. Michael Ferrazza was transported from the scene by MedFlight to Grant Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries. Mr. Bodenhamer sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene. Mr. Bayer and his passenger, Fay Bayer, age 65, of Lexington, Ohio were not injured. Mr. Ferrazza was not wearing a seatbelt and the time of the crash. All other occupants involved in the crash were wearing their seatbelts. Alcohol and drugs are suspected factors in this crash. The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted by the Morrow County EMS, MedFlight, Big Walnut Fire Department, and the Ohio Department of Transportation.
The traffic crash remains under investigation by the Mount Gilead Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.