NEW MATAMORAS, Ohio — The community of New Matamoras is mourning the tragic loss of 25-year-old Hailey Ball, who was killed Monday morning in a devastating crash along State Route 7 in Independence Township, Washington County.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the collision occurred around 6:15 a.m. near the intersection of Route 7 and Archers Fork Road (County Road 14). Ball was driving her 2005 Ford Focus north onto Route 7 when her vehicle was struck by a southbound 2023 Mack dump truck operated by 56-year-old Anthony Gump of Folsom, West Virginia.
Emergency responders arrived promptly at the scene, but Ball was sadly pronounced dead. The driver of the dump truck was not injured in the incident.
Authorities, including the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Newport Volunteer Fire Department, Little Muskingum Volunteer Fire Department, the Washington County Coroner’s Office, and the Ohio Department of Transportation, are continuing to investigate the crash. Officials have stated that alcohol and drugs are not believed to be factors.
Hailey Ball’s sudden passing has deeply impacted her family, friends, and the wider New Matamoras community. She is remembered as a kind-hearted and vibrant young woman whose life was tragically cut short. In the wake of her death, community members have come together to offer support, share memories, and honor her life.
The section of Route 7 where the crash occurred was closed for several hours as emergency crews and investigators worked at the scene. Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision in an effort to determine the cause and help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As New Matamoras grieves, residents are holding Ball’s loved ones close in their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.
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