Swanton Community Grieves Loss of 26-Year-Old Alysa Stafford After Fatal Crash in Henry County

Swanton Community Grieves Loss of 26-Year-Old Alysa Stafford After Fatal Crash in Henry County

SWANTON, Ohio (August 29, 2025) — The close-knit community of Swanton is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of 26-year-old Alysa Stafford, who tragically lost her life in a single-vehicle crash late Tuesday night in Henry County.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP), the fatal accident occurred at approximately 11:14 p.m. on Tuesday, August 28, 2025, along County Road 424, just west of County Road 2B in Washington Township. Preliminary reports indicate that Stafford was driving westbound when her vehicle veered off the right side of the roadway for reasons still under investigation. The car reportedly struck a ditch and overturned before coming to rest.

Emergency personnel from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Napoleon Fire and Rescue, and OSHP troopers responded swiftly to the scene. Despite their best efforts, Stafford was pronounced dead at the site of the crash. Authorities have not released information suggesting that alcohol or drugs played a role, though the investigation remains ongoing.

Alysa Stafford was well-known in the Swanton area for her warm personality, kindness, and deep involvement in the community. Friends and family describe her as a “bright light” — someone whose infectious smile and compassion left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

“She was the kind of person who would drop everything to help someone else,” said a longtime friend. “Alysa had this way of making people feel seen, loved, and appreciated. It’s hard to imagine Swanton without her.”

Stafford was a graduate of Swanton High School, where she was active in several student organizations and community service projects. In recent years, she had pursued a career in health care, dedicating her time to supporting others — a reflection of her caring nature and commitment to helping those in need.

Community members have begun leaving flowers, photos, and handwritten notes near the entrance to Swanton High School and outside Stafford’s family home, paying tribute to her life and legacy. A growing memorial at the crash site on County Road 424 also bears witness to the deep sorrow felt throughout the area.

Local leaders and clergy have offered condolences to the Stafford family, emphasizing the collective grief that has touched Swanton and surrounding towns. “The loss of a young life is always difficult, but when it’s someone so beloved and full of promise, the pain is immeasurable,” said Pastor Michael Turner of the Swanton Community Church. “Our hearts are with Alysa’s family as they navigate this unimaginable tragedy.”

The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Officials remind all motorists to use caution on rural roadways, particularly at night when visibility is limited.

Funeral arrangements for Alysa Stafford are currently pending and will be announced by her family in the coming days.

As Swanton gathers to mourn, the community is finding comfort in shared memories of Alysa’s kindness and spirit — a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Anyone wishing to support the Stafford family can contribute to a memorial fund being established in Alysa’s honor. Details will be released through local community organizations and social media channels once finalized.