Devon Lansing Obituary, Death – Authorities have released the identity of a man who died in a collision involving a passenger vehicle and a garbage truck in Clinton County, Ohio. The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSP) confirmed that 33-year-old Devon Lansing, a resident of Wilmington, lost his life in the crash, which occurred early Wednesday afternoon.
The fatal accident happened around 12:40 p.m. on State Route 73, in Union Township, a rural area within Clinton County. According to information provided by the OSP, the crash took place in the 4600 block of the highway and involved a 2001 Toyota Corolla and a Rumpke garbage truck.
Investigators say the Toyota Corolla, driven by Lansing, was heading south on State Route 73 when, for unknown reasons, it veered across the center line into oncoming traffic. The car then collided with the northbound Rumpke garbage truck. The impact of the crash was severe, and emergency responders pronounced Lansing dead at the scene. Authorities did not report any passengers in his vehicle.
The driver of the Rumpke garbage truck was not injured in the crash. According to a statement issued by the waste management company, the employee is safe and cooperating with the ongoing investigation. Rumpke’s safety manager, Bridgett Biggs, expressed sorrow over the tragic event.
“This is a tragic accident, and our thoughts are with everyone involved,” Biggs said in a written statement. “We are working closely with the Ohio State Highway Patrol to ensure a comprehensive investigation is conducted to understand exactly what happened today.”
In response to the crash, law enforcement shut down the section of OH-73 near the crash site to allow emergency crews and investigators to examine the scene. The closure is expected to continue for several hours while authorities collect evidence, analyze skid marks, take measurements, and document the positioning of the vehicles involved.
Although investigators have confirmed that Lansing’s vehicle crossed into the opposite lane, it remains unclear what may have caused him to lose control. Factors such as weather, speed, mechanical failure, or possible distraction have not yet been ruled out. Toxicology tests, as is standard in fatal crashes, will likely be conducted as part of the investigation to determine if impairment played any role.
OSP troopers are expected to examine the condition of both vehicles, interview witnesses, and review any available surveillance footage or dashcam recordings. Rumpke has indicated full cooperation in providing any necessary information about the truck and its driver, including the vehicle’s maintenance records and the employee’s driving history.
Community members who live along State Route 73 have expressed concern over frequent accidents on the stretch of road, noting that traffic can be fast-moving and, in some areas, lacks protective barriers. Some residents reported hearing the crash and seeing emergency vehicles rushing to the scene.
Devon Lansing’s death has prompted grief among those who knew him. While his family has not yet released a public statement, friends and acquaintances have begun sharing tributes online, remembering him as a kind-hearted individual and expressing shock at the sudden loss.
As with many rural two-lane roads, State Route 73 poses safety challenges, especially when drivers become distracted, drowsy, or misjudge spacing. The OSP continues to remind all motorists to stay alert, obey posted speed limits, and avoid distractions while driving.
At this point, no charges or citations have been issued, as the investigation is still in its early stages. Officials from the Ohio Department of Transportation were also present at the scene to assist with traffic management and road clearance.
Authorities have not indicated how long the roadway closure will last but advise travelers to seek alternate routes and remain patient while crews work. Detours have been set up to redirect traffic around the affected section of State Route 73.
Rumpke Waste & Recycling is one of the region’s largest waste management providers, with a significant fleet of vehicles operating across Ohio. The company has emphasized its commitment to safety and transparency in response to the crash.
“This is a heartbreaking incident, and our primary concern is supporting those impacted and working to uncover all the facts,” Biggs said.
As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge. Authorities encourage anyone who may have witnessed the crash or observed either vehicle prior to the collision to come forward and assist with the investigation.
For now, the Clinton County community mourns the loss of 33-year-old Devon Lansing, whose life was tragically cut short in a sudden and devastating crash. His death serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of caution and attentiveness on the road.
