Derek Robinson, Travontay Hooks-Sanders Obituary, Death – Two men lost their lives in a highway crash in Allen County, Ohio, on Saturday afternoon, according to officials from the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Lima Post. The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. on Interstate 75 near the Breese Road exit in Shawnee Township.
Authorities identified the victims as 29-year-old Travontay Hooks-Sanders from Greer, South Carolina, and 29-year-old Derek Robinson from Southfield, Michigan. Both men were traveling in a 2016 Jeep Renegade heading north on I-75 when the accident occurred.
Preliminary findings from investigators indicate that Hooks-Sanders was driving the Jeep when it veered onto the right-hand berm of the interstate. The vehicle then collided with the rear of a disabled 2022 Freightliner Cascadia semi-truck and trailer that was parked on the shoulder. The semi’s driver, identified as Keith Hughes, was inside the vehicle at the time but was not injured.
Emergency responders from several local agencies—including Shawnee Township Fire and EMS, Perry Township Fire and EMS, Lima EMS, and the Ohio Department of Transportation—rushed to the scene. Despite their quick response, both Hooks-Sanders and Robinson were pronounced deceased at the scene due to the force of the collision. Their remains were later taken to the Lucas County Coroner’s Office by Allen Mortuary Services.
The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles. The Jeep Renegade sustained extensive front-end damage, while the Freightliner semi also suffered disabling damage. Both vehicles were later removed from the site by Miller Auto Towing to clear the roadway and allow investigators to continue their work.
Troopers temporarily closed a section of the interstate as they documented evidence and coordinated cleanup efforts. Traffic was diverted to alternate routes for several hours before the lanes were reopened. The Ohio State Highway Patrol expressed appreciation for the coordinated response from multiple emergency services, which helped ensure the safety of other motorists in the area.
Investigators are continuing to examine all circumstances that may have led to the crash, including vehicle condition, road layout, and driver behavior. Weather conditions at the time were clear, and no additional vehicles were reported to have been involved. Officials have not released further details pending completion of the full investigation.
The accident has deeply affected both local residents and the families of the victims. Friends and loved ones described Hooks-Sanders and Robinson as hardworking young men with bright futures. Messages of sympathy have been shared online and within their communities in South Carolina and Michigan, as family members begin the process of coping with their loss.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to emphasize road safety and awareness, particularly around parked or disabled vehicles. Officials remind drivers to remain attentive, avoid distractions, and, when possible, move over or slow down when passing vehicles stopped along the roadway. Ohio’s “Move Over” law requires motorists to change lanes or reduce speed when approaching stationary emergency or maintenance vehicles, and troopers encourage the same caution for all stopped vehicles.
Authorities also noted that highway shoulders should only be used for emergencies and not as driving lanes or shortcuts. Even brief moments of inattention can result in serious or life-altering consequences, especially at highway speeds.
As the investigation continues, officials hope the findings will offer clarity and perhaps reinforce safe driving habits for others. The community has expressed gratitude to the first responders and troopers who worked at the scene, ensuring that the situation was handled with professionalism and care.
This tragic incident stands as a sobering reminder of the importance of constant vigilance while driving. The Ohio State Highway Patrol urges all motorists to remain alert, maintain safe distances, and approach roadside hazards with caution to help prevent similar accidents in the future.
