Hamilton County, Ohio (November 3, 2025) — Authorities have identified the man killed in a crash on Monday afternoon on the Ronald Reagan Cross County Highway as 76-year-old Sukanta Panda of West Chester Township. According to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Panda died after a tractor-trailer struck the vehicle he was in while it was stopped on the shoulder due to a flat tire.
Incident Details: The crash occurred around 12:30 p.m. near mile marker 30. Investigators said a 2018 Lexus had pulled onto the right shoulder when it was hit by a 2021 Peterbilt semi-truck traveling in the same direction. The impact forced both vehicles off the right side of the highway.
Panda and a 71-year-old woman, who has not yet been publicly identified, were transported to Bethesda North Hospital. Panda later succumbed to his injuries, while the woman’s condition has not been released. The driver of the Peterbilt was also taken to the hospital with minor injuries and was later discharged.
Authorities confirmed that all individuals involved were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. Alcohol and excessive speed are not suspected factors. The collision temporarily closed Ronald Reagan Highway in both directions as first responders cleared the scene.
Investigation: The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Traffic Unit continues to investigate the circumstances leading to the collision. Investigators are reviewing whether visibility, lane positioning, or inattentive driving contributed to the semi’s impact with the disabled Lexus.
Under Ohio law, motorists are required to exercise due care when approaching stationary vehicles on the shoulder, particularly those experiencing mechanical issues. Investigators may examine the truck’s dashcam footage and onboard electronic data recorder to determine whether the driver had adequate time to react or reduce speed before impact.
Legal Considerations: Crashes involving disabled vehicles and large commercial trucks often raise complex liability issues. Even when speed and impairment are ruled out, commercial drivers and their employers have a duty under both Ohio and federal law to maintain a proper lookout and safely navigate around stopped vehicles.
If negligence or unsafe driving contributed to the collision, the Panda family may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for funeral expenses, emotional distress, and loss of companionship. The injured passenger may also be entitled to recovery through a truck accident claim to address medical bills, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
My deepest condolences go out to the family of Sukanta Panda, and best wishes for recovery to the woman injured in this tragic crash.