July 4th Crash in Marion County Claims Life of 16-Year-Old

Marion – Troopers from the Marion Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol are investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on July 4th, 2026, at approximately 10:42 PM. The crash occurred on Likens-Chapel Road near Fairground Road in Marion
Township, Marion County.

Sandra Sayre, age 46 of Marion, was parked in a 2009 Mercedez-Benz M-Class, facing northbound on Likens-Chapel Road. Her vehicle was struck in the rear by a 2003 Ford Ranger, operated by Timothy Best, age 66, of Marion.

Ms. Sayre’s 16-year-old son was standing behind the vehicle when he was struck by the Ford as well.

The 16-year-old pedestrian was transported from the scene by Marion City Fire/EMS to Marion General Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Ms. Sayre and two 14 year-old occupants, who were also in the vehicle, were transported from the scene by Marion Township EMS to Marion General Hospital with minor injuries.

Mr. Best was transported from the scene by Marion City Fire/EMS to Marion General Hospital with minor injuries.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by the Marion City Police Department, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Marion Township EMS, Marion City Fire/EMS, and Kirby’s Towing.

The crash remains under investigation.