FINDLEY TOWNSHIP, PENNSYLVANIA — Gary Edward Jones, 66, of New Springfield, Ohio, was a truck driver, a fisherman, and by all accounts someone who made time on the water better for everyone around him. On the morning of September 30, he was killed on Interstate 80 in Mercer County when another semi-truck merged into his lane, causing him to lose control, exit the roadway, and roll — and the Mercer County coroner has ruled his death a homicide.
Jones was pronounced dead at the scene at 9:44 a.m. The cause of death was blunt force injuries sustained in the crash. The manner of death was ruled a homicide, meaning the death resulted from the actions of another person.
What Happened
Jones was driving a tractor-trailer westbound on I-80 in the right lane near mile marker 19 — between the Mercer and I-79 exits in Findley Township — around 9:25 a.m. when a semi in the left lane merged into the right lane directly in front of his trailer. Jones struck the semi on its passenger side, lost control, exited the roadway, and rolled onto his side. He was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected. The driver of the other truck was not injured.
Mercer County Coroner John Libonati ruled the death a homicide. No arrests had been announced as of the time of this report. Pennsylvania State Police are investigating. Westbound I-80 at the I-79 interchange was closed during the response before reopening.
Remembering Gary Jones
As investigators worked the scene, those who knew Jones were already mourning a friend.
Sweet Dreams Fishing Charters shared a tribute Thursday describing Jones as a longtime friend and client who was always a pleasure to spend time with on the water.
“Always a lot of fun to be with,” the charter company wrote. “Till we see each other again — find us a good fishing spot.”
The company extended its thoughts and prayers to Jones’ family and friends.
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