Clermont County officials confirmed that a pedestrian lost his life early Thursday morning after a collision on State Route 32 near Eastgate North Drive, adjacent to the Eastgate Mall in Union Township. The incident occurred at approximately 4:10 a.m., when a 2020 Kia Sportage traveling westbound struck the man who was walking in the roadway.
Victim identified and response
The victim has been identified as 40‑year‑old Christopher Latchford of Mount Orab. Emergency responders from the Union Township Police Department, Union Township Fire Department, and local EMS arrived quickly, but Latchford was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Kia was not injured.
Investigation and agencies involved
The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Batavia Post is leading the investigation. Officers noted that a preliminary review indicated the vehicle was traveling west on the highway when the collision occurred. The crash prompted a temporary closure of the westbound lanes of State Route 32 while investigators gathered evidence and documented the scene.
Assistance at the crash site was provided by multiple agencies, including the Clermont County Coroner’s Office, the Ohio Department of Transportation, and Tarvin Auto Service. After the investigation was completed, the highway was reopened to traffic.
Public safety reminder
Local officials reminded drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant, especially during early‑morning hours when visibility can be reduced. The Ohio State Highway Patrol encourages anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has information relevant to the investigation to contact the Batavia Post.
Impact on the community
The tragic loss of Christopher Latchford has resonated throughout the Clermont County community. Neighbors and local churches have expressed condolences, and the Union Township Police Department has offered support services to family members and friends affected by the incident.
State Route 32 remains a major east‑west corridor for commuters and shoppers traveling to and from the Eastgate Mall area. While the roadway is now fully operational, officials continue to monitor traffic patterns and safety conditions along the stretch.
Next steps
The Ohio State Highway Patrol will continue its investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash. A final report is expected to be released once all evidence has been reviewed.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
