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A devastating head-on crash in Union County has resulted in the death of a 17-year-old girl and left four other individuals injured, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP). The accident occurred on the evening of November 16 around 7:24 p.m. along Hyland-Croy Road in Jerome Township.

Claudia Phan, a senior at Dublin Jerome High School, was driving a 2016 Kia Forte northbound on Hyland-Croy Road when the tragic incident happened. OSHP reports that Phan drifted left of center as she approached Johnston Drive, leading to a head-on collision with a southbound 2017 Ford Explorer SUV.

The force of the crash was severe, and Phan was pronounced dead at the scene by the Union County Coroner’s Office. Emergency responders quickly arrived to assist those involved. The driver of the Explorer was transported to OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital with serious injuries. A woman sitting in the front passenger seat was also taken to the same hospital with minor injuries.

Additionally, two juveniles in the backseat of the Explorer sustained minor injuries and were transported to Nationwide Children’s Hospital for treatment. The tragic accident has deeply affected the local community, especially as Phan was a student at Dublin Jerome High School. A spokesperson for Dublin City Schools confirmed her status as a senior, highlighting the loss of a young life full of promise.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Marysville post is currently investigating the circumstances that led to the crash. Authorities have not yet released details about the cause but continue to work to determine what contributed to this heartbreaking event. As the community mourns the loss of Claudia Phan and supports those injured, this tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and awareness.

Violet Gustafson North Ridgeville GoFundMe – The community is mourning the loss of Violet Gustafson, a 16-year-old girl who tragically lost her life after being struck by a car Monday evening. The incident occurred around 6 p.m. on Lorain Road in North Ridgeville, and police have identified Violet as a student of North Ridgeville High School and Lorain County JVS.

According to North Ridgeville police, Violet was taking a break from her work at McDonald’s when she decided to walk across the street to Starbucks to get a coffee. Sadly, she was hit by a vehicle during her crossing. Emergency responders arrived swiftly to the scene, where they found Violet and immediately began administering first aid. She was then transported to St. John Westshore in Westlake, but despite efforts, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

The driver of the car remained at the scene and was unharmed. Authorities are currently investigating whether speed may have been a factor in the accident as they continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.

Violet’s passing has deeply affected her family, friends, and classmates. On Tuesday afternoon, in a heartfelt tribute, loved ones gathered at South Central Park for a balloon release and candlelight vigil to honor her memory. The community’s outpouring of support reflects the profound impact Violet had on those around her.

As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of a young girl full of promise and potential. Violet Gustafson’s life was tragically cut short, leaving many to remember her as a bright, kind-hearted soul whose presence will be dearly missed.

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Jordan P. Bush, 30, of Huntsville, Ohio. Jordan peacefully left this world on Monday, November 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.

Jordan was born on August 2, 1995, in Bellefontaine, Ohio, to Joe and Becky (Hurley) Bush, who survive him. From a young age, Jordan was known for his warm heart and vibrant spirit. Growing up in Bellefontaine, he attended Indian Lake High School, where he formed lasting friendships and developed a passion for life that would continue into adulthood.

Jordan was a beloved son and brother. His family was his greatest source of pride, and he was deeply loved by his two sisters, who remember him as a caring and supportive sibling. His family’s grief is shared by many who knew him, but they also hold onto the joyful memories of his kindness and the positive impact he had on those around him.

Though details of his life’s pursuits are private, Jordan’s presence was felt far beyond his immediate family. Those who knew him describe him as someone who always brought a smile and had a way of making others feel valued. His friendly demeanor and genuine nature made him a treasured member of his community.

As we mourn the loss of Jordan Bush, we also celebrate the life he lived and the love he shared with those around him. His memory will continue to inspire his family and friends, reminding us of the importance of kindness, connection, and cherishing every moment.

In this difficult time, our hearts go out to his family—Joe and Becky, his sisters, and all who loved him. Jordan’s spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched, and he will be dearly missed.

Jennifer Merwin Cooper was the embodiment of warmth, kindness, and unwavering devotion. Described by friends and family as a woman who “made every room warmer just by walking into it,” Jennifer’s presence was a source of comfort and joy to all who knew her.

A devoted wife and mother, Jennifer poured her heart into her family and her faith, proudly calling herself a “Daughter of a King.” Her faith was a guiding light in her life, inspiring her to serve others with compassion and grace. Whether at home, in her community, or in her professional endeavors, her love and dedication shone brightly.

Jennifer’s impact extended beyond her family. She was a beloved business owner, running Gigi’s Cupcakes in Auburn-Opelika and Columbus. Her bakery was more than just a place to satisfy sweet cravings; it was a hub of community connection, where her joyful spirit and generous nature touched many lives. Her passion for baking and her warm interactions made Gigi’s a favorite spot for locals, fostering a sense of community and friendship.

Before her success as a business owner, Jennifer inspired countless students as a seventh-grade science teacher. Her enthusiasm for education and her genuine care for her students left a lasting impression, nurturing young minds and instilling a love for learning.

Tragically, Jennifer Cooper’s life was cut short on Tuesday morning in a school bus crash on East University Drive in Auburn. Her sudden passing has left a void in the hearts of all who knew her. Those who had the privilege of crossing paths with her remember her as a generous, joyful soul whose kindness lifted others and whose service to others was rooted deeply in her character.

Jennifer’s legacy is one of love, service, and joy. Her life reminds us of the profound impact one person’s kindness can have on a community. As her family and friends mourn her loss, they also celebrate a woman whose warmth and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her spirit lives on in the memories she created and the lives she touched—a true testament to a life well-lived.