STEUBENVILLE, Ohio — The Steubenville community is mourning the tragic loss of 34-year-old John David Ruiz, who died early Wednesday morning following a crash on U.S. Route 22 in Island Creek Township, Jefferson County.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, at approximately 5:27 a.m. on January 28, 2026, Ruiz was traveling westbound in his 2016 Chevrolet Trax when his vehicle went off the right side of the road and collided with the rear of a 2019 Freightliner semi-truck. The semi-truck, owned by Thayer Power and driven by 20-year-old Kevin Costlow III of St. Clairsville, had stopped on the right berm while hauling a trailer loaded with utility poles. The impact caused Ruiz’s vehicle to catch fire, and he was pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the crash.
Responding agencies included the Ohio Department of Transportation, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Steubenville Fire Department and EMS, Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, and DPC Towing. The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
John David Ruiz’s sudden passing has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the Steubenville community. The city extends its deepest condolences to all who knew him, and his memory will be cherished by those whose lives he touched. His loss serves as a somber reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of community support in times of grief.
