Marion – Troopers from the Marion Post are investigating a fatal crash that occurred on February 7, 2023, at approximately 7:15 PM, on Marion-Cardington Road (County Road 136) east of State Route 423 in Marion County.
The crash involved a 2007 Dodge Dakota driven by Richard W. Congrove Jr, age 41, of Marion, Ohio. There was a juvenile occupant in the Dodge. The second vehicle involved was a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze driven by Tyler E. Johnson, age 30, of Marion, Ohio.
The preliminary investigation indicates Mr. Congrove Jr. was traveling westbound on Marion-Cardington Rd. Mr. Johnson was traveling eastbound on Marion-Cardington Rd. Mr. Congrove’s Dodge drove left of the centerline into the eastbound lane and struck Mr. Johnson’s Chevrolet head on. The Dodge traveled off the north side of the roadway and overturned. The Chevrolet traveled off the south side of the roadway and struck an embankment.
Mr. Johnson was pronounced deceased on scene by the Marion County Coroner, Dr. Gary Burton. Mr. Johnson was not wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash.
Mr. Congrove Jr. was taken to Marion General Hospital with serious injuries. He was later taken to Grant Medical Center. The juvenile passenger was taken to Marion General Hospital with minor injuries. She was later taken to Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Alcohol is suspected to be a factor in this crash.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Pleasant Township Fire and EMS, Marion Township EMS, Marion County Coroner’s Office, and Ron’s Towing.