Devon Lansing Death – Authorities have identified the man who died in a fatal crash involving a garbage truck on Wednesday afternoon.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol confirmed that 33-year-old Devon Lansing, a resident of Wilmington, was killed in the collision, which took place around 12:40 p.m. on State Route 73 in Union Township.
According to investigators, Lansing was driving a 2001 Toyota Corolla southbound on SR-73 when the vehicle crossed the center line for unknown reasons. It collided head-on with a northbound Rumpke garbage truck in the 4600 block of the highway.
Emergency crews responded quickly but pronounced Lansing dead at the scene. He was the sole occupant of his vehicle. The garbage truck driver was not injured and is cooperating with authorities.
Rumpke Waste & Recycling released a statement following the accident. “This is a tragic accident, and our thoughts are with everyone involved,” said Bridgett Biggs, Rumpke’s safety manager. “We are working closely with the Ohio State Highway Patrol to ensure a thorough investigation.” The company also confirmed its full cooperation, including providing maintenance records and employee driving histories.
The crash led to a full closure of State Route 73 near the scene as investigators examined the wreckage and collected evidence. No official cause has been determined, and investigators are considering multiple factors, including road conditions, possible mechanical issues, speed, or distraction. Toxicology tests will be conducted as part of standard procedure in fatal crashes.
Local residents expressed concern over the stretch of State Route 73 where the crash occurred, noting that it is prone to accidents due to fast-moving traffic and a lack of barriers. Some reported hearing the impact and seeing emergency vehicles swarm the area shortly after. Officials with the Ohio Department of Transportation assisted with traffic control and detour coordination.
Devon Lansing’s death has left his community in mourning. While his family has yet to make a public statement, friends have shared memories of him online, describing him as kind-hearted and deeply missed. The investigation remains active, and authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or saw the vehicles beforehand to contact the Ohio State Highway Patrol.