NEW MATAMORAS, Ohio — The New Matamoras community is reeling after the tragic death of 25-year-old Hailey Ball, who was killed Monday morning in a collision on state Route 7 in Independence Township, Washington County. Friends, family, and neighbors are struggling to process the sudden loss of a young life cut tragically short.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the fatal crash occurred around 6:15 a.m. near the intersection of Route 7 and Archers Fork Road (County Road 14). Ball was driving her 2005 Ford Focus north onto Route 7 when a southbound 2023 Mack dump truck, driven by 56-year-old Anthony Gump of Folsom, West Virginia, struck her vehicle. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Ball was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the dump truck was not injured.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol, in collaboration with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Newport Volunteer Fire Department, Little Muskingum Volunteer Fire Department, the Washington County Coroner’s Office, and the Ohio Department of Transportation, is actively investigating the circumstances of the crash. Authorities have confirmed that alcohol and drugs are not suspected factors.
Hailey Ball’s untimely death has left a profound impact on those who knew her. Family and friends remember her as a kind-hearted and vibrant young woman whose life was tragically taken in an instant. Residents of New Matamoras and surrounding areas are coming together to support her grieving family and honor her memory.
The portion of Route 7 where the crash occurred was closed for several hours as first responders and investigators worked at the scene. Officials continue to examine the details of the incident to determine exactly how the collision occurred and to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Community members have shared their condolences and memories of Ball, emphasizing the loss felt across the town. Her death is a somber reminder of how quickly life can change and the importance of caution and awareness on the road.
The New Matamoras community remains in mourning as they remember Hailey Ball and stand with her family during this incredibly difficult time.
