Authorities in Brown County are investigating a tragic single-vehicle crash that claimed the life of 45-year-old David Leonard, a resident of Aberdeen. The crash occurred Saturday morning along the joint stretch of U.S. Route 62/68, just south of the intersection with Hartman Road, in a rural portion of the county located several miles from both Ripley and Georgetown.

Emergency crews were dispatched shortly after 8 a.m. when the report of a serious crash first came in. When law enforcement and first responders arrived, they discovered a vehicle overturned in Redoak Creek, which sits roughly 30 feet below the roadway. The driver, later identified as David Leonard, was found deceased at the scene.

According to information released by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Mr. Leonard had been driving a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria when, for reasons still unknown, his vehicle drifted off the right side of the highway into a grassy median. The car then struck a guardrail before going over an embankment, ultimately coming to rest on its roof in the creek below.

At this time, investigators have not determined what caused David to lose control of his vehicle. No other vehicles or individuals were involved in the crash.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the incident as they work to gather all available information and reconstruct the events that led to the fatal crash.

David Leonard’s unexpected passing is a heartbreaking loss for his family, friends, and the Aberdeen community. While details about his personal life have not yet been publicly shared, his loss is deeply felt by those who knew him. As investigators continue their work, loved ones mourn a life cut tragically short and remember David for the impact he made on those around him.

Words fall short of expressing our grief for your loss, as we mourn with family and friends for this great loss. We are truly sorry to hear of the loss of this promising being. Please accept our condolences, and may our prayers help comfort you. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.

Feel free to drop condolence messages and prayers for the family and friends of the deceased, as it will go a very long way at this difficult time of theirs.