Holly Williams, 48, and 11-Year-Old Howell Child Obituary – Fatal I-75 Crash in Auglaize County Claims Two Lives

The communities of Howell, Michigan, and Auglaize County, Ohio, are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Holly Williams, 48, and an 11-year-old child from Howell, who were killed in a tragic traffic accident on Interstate 75 in the early morning hours of Sunday, June 28, 2026. The devastating collision has left family members, friends, and all who knew the victims grieving two lives taken far too soon.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the fatal crash occurred at approximately 4:07 a.m. on northbound Interstate 75 near mile marker 108 in Pusheta Township, Auglaize County. Investigators reported that Holly Williams was driving a 2011 Ford Explorer when the SUV traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck the median cable barrier. The vehicle then re-entered the interstate but became disabled in the right lane, leaving it vulnerable to oncoming traffic.

Inside the Explorer were Holly Williams, an 11-year-old child from Howell, and James Johnson, 54, of Limestone, Tennessee. As the disabled SUV remained in the travel lane, Johnson exited the vehicle in an effort to push it to safety. Moments later, a northbound 2018 Freightliner semi-truck, operated by Charles Pagel, collided with the rear of the disabled SUV. The tremendous impact forced the vehicle off the roadway and into Johnson, who sustained minor injuries.

Despite emergency responders arriving quickly, Holly Williams and the 11-year-old child suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. Both occupants were reported to have been wearing seat belts. Johnson was transported to Lima Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries, while the truck driver was not injured in the collision. Authorities have stated that alcohol and drugs are not believed to have played a role in the crash, and the investigation remains ongoing.

The sudden deaths of Holly Williams and the young child have left an immeasurable void for their loved ones. Friends and community members have expressed profound sorrow as they remember Holly as a devoted mother, family member, and friend whose kindness and dedication to those she loved defined her life. The loss of an 11-year-old child alongside her has made the tragedy especially difficult for the Howell community, where many are offering prayers and support to the grieving family.

Traffic crashes involving disabled vehicles on busy interstate highways often unfold within seconds, underscoring the dangers faced by motorists who experience unexpected breakdowns. This heartbreaking incident serves as a painful reminder of the importance of emergency precautions, including moving disabled vehicles from travel lanes whenever possible and remaining alert to roadway hazards.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Wapakoneta Post continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and has thanked the numerous agencies that assisted at the scene, including the Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office, Wapakoneta EMS and Fire, the Auglaize County Coroner’s Office, Auglaize County CERT, and local towing services.

As family and friends begin the difficult process of mourning, Holly Williams and the young child will be remembered not for the tragic circumstances of their passing, but for the love, memories, and lasting impact they shared with those fortunate enough to know them. Their loss is deeply felt by all whose lives they touched, and they will be remembered with affection, compassion, and enduring love.