At least one person was killed today in a crash on the Norwood Lateral, the westbound stretch of State Route 562, the Hamilton County Coroner’s Office confirmed. Alerts from the Ohio Department of Transportation reported that all westbound lanes were closed while crews and investigators worked at the scene, triggering backups on nearby connectors.
The Hamilton County Coroner’s Office confirmed the fatality, according to FOX19. The station also reported that ODOT said all westbound lanes of SR 562 were shut and that it was not clear how long the closure would last while authorities cleared the scene.
Busy Stretch Already Under Construction And Known For Crashes
The Norwood Lateral is in the middle of an ODOT rehabilitation plan this spring and summer that involves extended directional closures. WCPO reported that crews would work the eastbound side first, then shift to westbound repairs. WCPO also cited Ohio State Highway Patrol data showing the lateral has had more than 700 crashes since 2019, a number officials pointed to when justifying the shutdowns.
What The Coroner Says About Next Steps
The coroner's office has confirmed the death but has not released the victim’s identity or a cause of death, pending investigation and possible autopsy results. The Hamilton County Coroner’s website notes that autopsy reports and toxicology testing can take weeks, often 8-12 weeks, and that families are notified as information becomes available. More details on the process are posted by the Hamilton County Coroner.
Traffic Impact And What Drivers Should Know
Drivers were warned to expect delays in the area while westbound SR 562 remained closed. As part of the broader construction project, ODOT has advised detours using I-71 and Fort Washington Way. Officials have asked witnesses or anyone with video or dashcam footage to contact local authorities as the investigation continues. This story will be updated when officials release additional details.
