On April 19, 2026, at approximately 8:10 p.m., the Jackson Communication Center of the local Patrol received an urgent report regarding a serious traffic collision on US 50 near Veterans Parkway. The incident involved a collision between a car and a motorcycle, and emergency responders immediately dispatched units to the scene to provide assistance and investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. This tragic event has left the community shaken, prompting law enforcement officials to thoroughly examine the details leading up to the accident.
According to the initial reports, the vehicle involved was a 2022 Hyundai Palisade, driven by Lois Jones, a 79-year-old resident of Portsmouth. Ms. Jones was traveling eastbound on US 50, a busy highway that sees a significant amount of commuter and local traffic, especially during the evening hours. At the time of the crash, she was maneuvering to make a left turn onto Veterans Parkway. Left turns at busy intersections are common points of concern for drivers, as they require crossing oncoming traffic and often demand heightened attention and careful judgment.
The other vehicle involved was a 2001 Honda VT750 motorcycle, driven by Ryan Hayes, a 19-year-old resident of Chillicothe. Mr. Hayes was traveling westbound on US 50 when the collision occurred. Witnesses and initial police reports indicate that the motorcycle was approaching from the opposite direction of Ms. Jones’s vehicle, moving steadily in the westbound lane. As Ms. Jones aimed to complete her left turn onto Veterans Parkway, the motorcycle was approaching from the west, with both vehicles moving in perpendicular directions.
The collision occurred when the motorcycle struck the left front side of the Hyundai Palisade. Specifically, the motorcyclist collided with the front left corner of the SUV, which was in the process of turning. The impact was severe, causing the motorcycle to slide off the right side of the roadway. The force of the crash was significant enough to throw Mr. Hayes from the motorcycle, and he was left lying on the roadway following the collision. Emergency responders arriving shortly after the crash found Mr. Hayes in a critical condition, requiring immediate medical attention.
First responders, including paramedics and firefighters, quickly tended to Mr. Hayes, providing life-saving measures on the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital. The injuries sustained in such accidents are often severe, involving potential trauma to the head, chest, and limbs. The Hyundai driver, Lois Jones, was also evaluated at the scene but appeared to have sustained only minor injuries, likely due to the nature of the impact and the safety features of her vehicle. However, law enforcement officers continued their investigation to determine whether any safety violations or other factors contributed to the collision.
The area where the crash occurred is a well-traveled stretch of US 50, and the timing — early evening — is typically busy with commuters, but the visibility was still good at the time of the accident. Investigators are examining whether the turn was executed properly and if any traffic signals or signs may have played a role. They are also reviewing traffic camera footage and speaking with witnesses to get a clearer picture of the events leading up to the crash.
This incident highlights the dangers inherent in intersections and turns, especially when drivers and motorcyclists are traveling in opposite directions. Law enforcement officials emphasize the importance of cautious driving, obeying traffic signals, and being vigilant for other vehicles, particularly in areas where turns are common. They also remind drivers to be extra cautious during low-light conditions and to always be aware of their surroundings.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the crash or has any relevant information to come forward. Their cooperation is vital in understanding the full context of the incident and determining if any additional factors contributed to the collision.
In summary, on April 19, 2026, at about 8:10 p.m., a serious crash occurred on US 50 near Veterans Parkway involving a 2022 Hyundai Palisade driven by Lois Jones and a motorcycle driven by Ryan Hayes. The motorcycle struck the front left side of the vehicle during Ms. Jones’s left turn, causing Mr. Hayes to be thrown off the motorcycle and slide off the roadway. Emergency responders acted swiftly to assist the injured, and law enforcement is conducting a thorough investigation to uncover the causes of this tragic accident. As the community awaits further details, the importance of cautious driving and road safety remains a key message from authorities.
