Fatal Crash in Jackson Township Claims the Life of Bryan Motorcyclist
JACKSON TOWNSHIP, Ohio — A tragic three-vehicle crash in Paulding County claimed the life of a motorcyclist late Sunday morning, September 28, 2025. The incident occurred at approximately 11:41 a.m. on State Route 637 at County Road 138, according to the Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Investigators determined that Grady K. Barton, 17, of Oakwood, was traveling northbound on SR 637 in a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado. Ahead of him, Marisela Soto Vazquez, 31, of Paulding, was operating a 2016 Toyota RAV4, also traveling northbound.
As Mrs. Soto Vazquez slowed to make a left turn onto County Road 138, Barton failed to maintain an assured clear distance. In an attempt to avoid a collision, Barton swerved left, sideswiping Soto Vazquez’s vehicle before entering the southbound lane.
At that moment, Lance M. Bolenbaugh, 48, of Bryan, was approaching on a 2012 Harley Davidson Street Glide 103, traveling southbound on SR 637. Barton’s Silverado struck Bolenbaugh head-on, causing fatal injuries.
Mr. Bolenbaugh was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Paulding County Coroner’s Office. Barton sustained minor injuries, while Soto Vazquez was uninjured in the crash.
The scene drew a significant emergency response. Assisting troopers were deputies from the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office, Paulding EMS, Paulding Fire Department, Gideon’s Towing and Recovery, and Hague’s Towing and Repair.
Authorities emphasized the preventable nature of the tragedy. In a statement, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reminded motorists of the importance of maintaining a safe following distance and avoiding distracted driving. “Keeping your focus on the road and ensuring proper distance from the vehicle ahead can save lives,” officials noted.
The crash remains under investigation as the community of Bryan mourns the devastating loss of Lance Bolenbaugh, a life cut short on what began as an ordinary Sunday ride.
