MEDINA, OH — A heartbreaking incident unfolded early Saturday morning in Medina County, as **27-year-old Daniel L. Westrich**, of Canton, lost his life after being struck by a marked Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) cruiser along Interstate 71 northbound.
The fatal crash occurred around 5:00 a.m. between **State Route 83 and the I-76 interchange in Westfield Township**, where troopers had initially responded to reports of a pedestrian walking along the interstate near milepost 204. Within minutes, at milepost 206, Westrich was fatally struck by the OSHP vehicle.
Emergency responders from multiple agencies, including Seville-Guilford Fire & EMS and Westfield Fire & Rescue, arrived quickly but were unable to save the young man. He was **pronounced dead at the scene**. No additional injuries were reported.
**A Life Cut Short in the Early Morning Hours**
Daniel Westrich’s sudden and tragic death has left his family and community reeling. Described by friends as a kind and compassionate soul navigating personal challenges, his presence will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.
> *“Daniel had a gentle heart. This is a terrible tragedy that none of us saw coming,”* shared a close family friend.
While many questions remain surrounding the circumstances that led Westrich to be walking on the highway in the early morning hours, his death has sparked reflection and sorrow in both Canton and Medina communities.
**Investigation Ongoing**
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the fatal crash. Authorities have not yet released details on what led to Westrich being on the roadway or whether the patrol cruiser involved had time to react before the collision.
Officials emphasized that the investigation remains active and thorough, promising updates as more information becomes available.
**Traffic Advisory**
As a result of the investigation and cleanup efforts, the northbound lanes of Interstate 71 between **State Route 83 and I-76** were temporarily closed. Motorists were urged to avoid the area and take alternate routes. Southbound lanes remained open.
**Final Thoughts**
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be, and how even a routine patrol can end in unimaginable heartbreak. The Ohio State Highway Patrol has expressed condolences to the family of Daniel Westrich as the community mourns his loss.
**May Daniel be remembered with love, and may his family find strength and peace in this time of sorrow.**