Feb. 14, 2026, 5:56 a.m. ET
Portage County’s roads were vastly more dangerous in 2025, as fatal crashes surged over the previous year.
According to the Portage County Fatal Crash Review Board’s 2025 traffic fatality report, 18 people were killed in crashes in the county. The deaths occurred in 17 crashes.
Although not mentioned in the report, Portage County had at least five fatal crashes in August that killed six people.
In 2024, there were 11 fatal crashes and 12 deaths, according to that year’s report.
The 2025 total was not the highest among the previous seven years:
- 2023: 19 fatal crashes with 19 fatalities.
- 2022: 16 fatal crashes and 18 deaths.
- 2021: 16 fatal crashes and 17 deaths.
- 2020: 13 fatal crashes and 17 deaths.
- 2019: 14 fatal crashes and 14 deaths.
The leading contributing factors in the 2025 fatal crashes were unsafe speed and failure to yield, according to the 2025 report. Alcohol or drugs were involved in 10 of the 17 fatal crashes.
Geographically, 13 fatal crashes occurred in rural areas, while four were in urban areas.
Motorcycle safety remains a critical concern. Of the five fatal crashes involving motorcycles, only two riders were wearing helmets, which are not required by law.
Data also shows higher risk during overnight hours:
- 10 fatal crashes occurred between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- Two fatal crashes occurred between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- Five fatal crashes occurred between 2 p.m. and 10 p.m.
“As we review our year-end traffic fatality numbers, it is clear that many of these tragedies were preventable,” Portage County Prosecutor Connie Lewandowski is quoted in the report. “Distracted driving and driving under the influence continue to be leading factors in fatal crashes. These are not accidents. They are choices that forever change families and communities. We remind the public that one moment of inattention or impairment can have irreversible consequences. We urge every driver to slow down, stay focused, and make responsible decisions behind the wheel. Safe driving is a responsibility we all share.”
The Fatality Review Board is responsible for reviewing fatal crashes to identify trends and recommend evidence-based countermeasures aimed at preventing future tragedies.
Reporter Jeff Saunders can be reached at jsaunders@recordpub.com.
