HINCKLEY TOWNSHIP – A quiet Saturday morning turned tragic for friends and family in Medina County when 40‑year‑old Halley Woodward of South Euclid died following a two‑vehicle collision at a rural intersection. The crash happened just before 9:46 a.m. on January 31 at the crossroads of State Road and State Route 303 in the township’s heart, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Investigators say Woodward was driving a 2018 Ford Fusion north on State Road and attempted to turn west onto SR‑303. For reasons still under review, she failed to stop at the posted stop sign and pulled into the path of a 2022 Chevrolet Colorado headed east on the highway. The Colorado struck Woodward’s vehicle in the intersection.
Emergency crews arrived quickly, and Woodward was rushed to Brunswick Medical Center with serious injuries. Hospital staff later pronounced her dead. The driver of the Chevrolet, identified as 41‑year‑old Mathew Bigadza, suffered only minor injuries and was treated at the scene. Both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.
Neighbors describe Halley Woodward as a warm, caring presence in every room she entered. Her sudden death has left a deep wound in a tight‑knit circle of family and friends who now recall her laughter, kindness, and generosity with a mixture of heartache and gratitude for the moments they shared. Many have gathered informally to support one another, trading stories of her warmth over coffee and candlelight.
Police and highway patrol officers remained at the scene for hours, documenting evidence and speaking with witnesses, while the Hinckley Township Police and Fire Departments assisted with traffic control and cleanup. Towing services removed the damaged vehicles, and the roadway reopened later in the afternoon once investigators finished their work.
Family members have asked for privacy as they plan a memorial service to celebrate Woodward’s life. Community members have also left flowers and notes at an informal roadside memorial near the crash site, turning a somber stretch of pavement into a quiet space of reflection.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances of the collision. Officials remind drivers to exercise caution at rural intersections and to obey all traffic controls, especially in areas where stop signs serve as the only safeguard against cross traffic.
