CHILLICOTHE, OH — A tragic two-vehicle crash on Tuesday evening, August 5, 2025, along U.S. Route 23 in Ross County, has claimed the life of 18-year-old Drezden Bolin-Hitchens, a promising young student from Waverly and attendee of Pike County Career Technology Center (Pike CTC). The devastating collision also left another 18-year-old with serious injuries.
According to a report from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the crash took place at approximately 5:59 p.m. near the intersection of U.S. Route 23 and Alma Omega Road in Franklin Township. Authorities say that Bolin-Hitchens was behind the wheel of a 2020 GMC Terrain, traveling southeast on U.S. 23, when his vehicle crossed the center line for reasons still unknown. Tragically, the GMC collided head-on with a 2016 Nissan NV2500 driven by Joseph Brandt, 18, of Columbus.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, but despite their efforts, Drezden Bolin-Hitchens was pronounced deceased. Joseph Brandt sustained serious injuries and was transported by Huntington Township EMS to Adena Regional Medical Center, where he is currently receiving treatment. His condition has not yet been publicly updated.
The cause of the crash is still under active investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. No contributing factors have yet been officially confirmed, and authorities are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
The sudden loss of Drezden has sent a wave of grief throughout the Waverly and Chillicothe communities, including the student body and staff at Pike CTC. Drezden was remembered by friends, family, and educators as a bright, driven, and compassionate young man who had much to offer the world.
Loved ones describe Drezden as a young man full of promise, with a deep love for his family and his close-knit group of friends. Whether in the classroom, on the road, or in everyday interactions, he was known for his kindness and the positive energy he brought wherever he went.
As news of the crash spreads, expressions of sorrow and support have poured in from across Pike and Ross counties. Community members are coming together to remember Drezden’s life and offer strength to both the Bolin-Hitchens and Brandt families during this time of unimaginable loss.
Memorial arrangements for Drezden Bolin-Hitchens have not yet been announced.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information that could assist in the ongoing investigation to contact the Ohio State Highway Patrol.