Columbus, OH – A fatal overnight crash on Interstate 270 in Franklin County left one person dead and another critically injured, causing major disruption during the early morning hours Thursday.
According to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 12:47 a.m. Thursday, April 23, 2026, on I-270 South just north of the Dempsey Road overpass in Blendon Township. Investigators say a black 2023 Audi A3 was traveling southbound when a red 2017 Chevy Cruze, reportedly traveling the wrong direction in the southbound lanes, collided head-on with the Audi.
Emergency crews from multiple agencies, including the Columbus Division of Police and Westerville fire and EMS, responded to the scene. Both drivers, who were the sole occupants of their vehicles, were transported to Mount Carmel East Hospital in critical condition.
Authorities said the driver of the Chevy Cruze was pronounced dead at 1:32 a.m. The driver of the Audi remains in critical condition as of the latest update.
The crash led to temporary closures along I-270 South as crews worked to clear the wreckage and investigate the scene. Roadways have since reopened.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Crash Investigation Unit is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at 614-525-6113.
