Ohio Mother of Three Dies After Tree Crashes Onto Vehicle on Highway

A 35-year-old Ohio woman lost her life Saturday evening when a towering tree fell from a wooded area and struck her vehicle on a major highway. Bridget E. Reagan of Minerva was driving a 2023 Jeep Wagoneer westbound on U.S. Route 30 in Paris Township around 5:24 p.m. when the tree collapsed onto the SUV, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators are examining multiple factors that may have contributed to the tree’s failure, including ground saturation and possible rot. Lt. Johnnie Maier of the Ohio State Highway Patrol characterized the incident as an act of God, noting that such an occurrence could happen to anyone but in this case claimed the life of a devoted family member.

Reagan was a prominent member of the Minerva business community who owned Chic Haven, a clothing and home décor boutique. The Minerva Area Chamber of Commerce released a statement mourning her loss, praising Reagan as a valued entrepreneur who radiated warmth, energy, and joy throughout the tight-knit community.

Beyond her business ventures, Reagan was known for her charitable work and community involvement. She leveraged her social media presence to encourage donations to SAVE22 Veterans, an Ohio nonprofit dedicated to veteran support and suicide awareness, describing the organization’s mission as personally meaningful.

Reagan’s sister Kelly confirmed her death through an emotional post on the boutique’s social media account, highlighting her sister’s deep commitment to the business and her profound impact on countless lives. The family pledged to honor Reagan’s legacy and preserve what she built.

A GoFundMe campaign launched by her sister is raising funds for funeral expenses and to support Reagan’s three young children. Friends and customers flooded social media with tributes, describing her as exceptionally kind, supportive, and welcoming to families throughout the community.

A local candlemaking business announced plans to honor Reagan’s memory by producing a special memorial candle in her favorite fragrance, with all profits directed to her family. The company noted Reagan had been an early supporter of their business and a frequent collaborative partner on community events.