Marion Man Arraigned in Fatal Fourth of July OVI Crash That Killed Teen

Marion County Prosecutor Ray Grogan announced on Monday that Timothy Best, 66, of Marion, faces felony charges for driving drunk and killing a 16-year-old boy on July 4, 2026.

According to a release, on that date, Best drove a Ford pick-up truck northbound on County Road 183. He collided with a parked car. A boy who was watching fireworks with his family was standing behind the parked vehicle. Best’s truck crushed the teen between his truck and the car. The boy died shortly after.

An Ohio State Highway Patrol investigation showed that Best had a blood alcohol level of .237 — nearly three times the legal limit. Witnesses reported smelling alcohol on Best’s breath at the scene. Investigators also determined that Best drove with a suspended license at the time of the crash.

Prosecutor Grogan said the evidence clearly shows Best made a series of dangerous choices that cost a child his life.

“Timothy Best chose to get behind the wheel with nearly three times the legal limit of alcohol in his system while his license was already suspended. As a result, a boy who was simply watching fireworks with his family is now gone forever,” Grogan said.

According to court records, Best has been convicted of drunk driving on four prior occasions, making him a dangerous repeat offended and enhancing the possible penalties for the crime.

Best’s high blood alcohol level, combined with his suspended license, shows a serious disregard for the safety of others.

At an arraignment today, Magistrate Matthew Nolan ordered Best held in jail in lieu of a $1,000,000.00 bond.

“This case is another painful reminder of the deadly consequences of drunk driving,” Grogan said. “When someone drives impaired and takes an innocent life, we will hold them fully accountable. No family should have to bury a child because a reckless fool decided to drink and drive.”

Grogan and the victims advocate in his office are supporting the boy’s family through this process.

All defendants are presumed innocent until and unless convicted in court.