The Ohio State Highway Patrol is requesting assistance from the public in identifying a semi-truck involved in a fatal crash in late October that ultimately led to the death of a Bolivar man.
Dennis Alsept, 78, was driving a 2024 Kia SUV northbound when he collided with the rear of a semi-truck on Oct. 24 in Strasburg. Alsept succumbed to his injuries on Oct. 31.
According to Sgt. Bill Bower, Assistant Commander of the New Philadelphia Post, the semi-truck had initially stopped at the scene, pulling onto the berm just within sight of the crash. The driver reportedly remained there for approximately four minutes before leaving. However, officers have limited information on the vehicle, and the driver has not yet been identified.
“We need the community’s help to track down the semi-truck that was involved,” Sgt. Bower said. “If anyone has details about the truck’s load or its origin, we urge them to contact the Ohio State Highway Patrol.”
The incident, which occurred as both vehicles were traveling northbound on I-77 near Strasburg, began when the truck’s driver appeared to miss the southbound on-ramp, prompting him to make a U-turn on Interstate 77. As he maneuvered across the northbound lanes, Alsept’s vehicle collided with the rear of the semi-trailer.
“We’ve obtained video footage showing the semi-truck sitting on the berm after the crash,” Bower added. “He pulled in immediately, but then he left without reporting anything. We’re working to track down the truck and driver by reviewing footage from local businesses along U.S. Route 250 and near Strasburg, Wooster, and Apple Creek.”
Highway Patrol officers have collaborated with nearly 30 businesses in the area, using surveillance cameras to retrace the semi-truck’s path. “The businesses have been incredibly cooperative,” Bower said. “We’ve found several videos showing the truck traveling through, but the camera angles or distortions make it challenging to identify the lettering on the truck’s door.”
Investigators believe the truck may have been loaded somewhere west of Apple Creek, possibly in the Wooster area. They continue to contact area businesses to gather information on the truck’s cargo.
“If we can pinpoint where he loaded from, we’ll have the lead we need,” Bower said.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol encourages anyone with information regarding the truck’s load or its origin to contact their office to assist with the ongoing investigation.
