Jennifer Donley Obituary, Zanesville, OH Death: ODOT Bridge Inspector Killed by Freightliner on I-70 at 45

Jennifer Donley, a 45-year-old Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) employee from Lancaster, Ohio, died after being struck by a Freightliner truck while working along Interstate 70 in Zanesville, Muskingum County. The fatal collision occurred on the morning of Monday, November 9, 2026, while Donley was carrying out her duties as a bridge inspector in an active construction zone.

According to the preliminary investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the crash happened at approximately 8:09 a.m. on westbound I-70 near mile marker 154, close to the Maple Avenue off-ramp.

Investigators say a 2027 Freightliner Cascadia traveling westbound struck Donley while she was in the roadway. The truck was driven by 54-year-old Brian Carter of Indianapolis, Indiana.

Donley suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Carter was not injured.

Jennifer Donley Remembered by ODOT Colleagues

Donley had worked for the Ohio Department of Transportation for four years. Her death has brought grief to colleagues and others across the department, where she served as a bridge inspector.

ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn issued a statement acknowledging the loss and expressing sympathy for Donley’s family, friends and coworkers. She also asked people to keep everyone affected by the tragedy in their thoughts and prayers.

For those who knew Jennifer in Lancaster and through her work with ODOT, her death represents a deeply painful loss. She was carrying out her professional responsibilities when the collision occurred, leaving loved ones and colleagues to face the sudden absence of someone who had been part of their lives.

Investigation Into Fatal I-70 Collision

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Additional local agencies and county officials assisted emergency responders at the scene.

The preliminary findings identify the truck involved and the circumstances reported by investigators, but the investigation remains ongoing. Further details about the collision have not been provided.

Jennifer Donley is being remembered by her colleagues and loved ones following a tragedy that took her life while she was working. Her death has prompted renewed sorrow among those who knew her and those who worked alongside her at the Ohio Department of Transportation.

May she rest in peace.