Dayton Driver Sentenced in Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash
A 29-year-old man received a 32-to-36-year prison sentence for a DUI crash that killed four men.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Crime — General
Clayton Hughes was sentenced to 32 to 36 years in prison after a high-speed, alcohol-fueled crash near the Dayton airport in April 2024. The collision resulted in the deaths of four men and left one other person injured.
Why it matters
The sentencing concludes a legal process following a severe hit-and-run incident that claimed four lives on Interstate 70 and at a nearby intersection. This case highlights the lethal consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol at high speeds.
Clayton Hughes received a prison sentence of 32 to 36 years following his July 2026 indictment on 8 counts of Aggravated Vehicular Homicide. The court proceedings concluded on September 24, 2026.
The players
Clayton Hughes
He is the 29-year-old driver responsible for the fatal alcohol-related crash near the Dayton airport.
Larry Edwards
He was one of the four men who lost their lives in the April 2024 collision.
Richard Coatney
He was one of the four men who died following the collision between the two vehicles.
Richard Tumbell
He was one of the four individuals killed when the pickup truck was struck by the defendant.
Stephen Cassel
He was among the four victims who died as a result of the crash at the intersection of Terminal and Boeing Drive.
The details
Hughes operated a vehicle at high speeds under the influence of alcohol before rear-ending a pickup truck on Interstate 70. He continued driving until striking the same vehicle at the intersection of Terminal Drive and Boeing Drive, killing Larry Edwards, Richard Coatney, Richard Tumbell, and Stephen Cassel.
Timeline
The fatal crash took place in April 2024.
Clayton Hughes was indicted on July 24, 2026.
The court handed down the sentence on September 24, 2026.
Legal Context
The sentencing follows the sentencing standards set by Ohio's Aggravated Vehicular Homicide statutes. This case reflects how courts apply these specific felony charges when multiple fatalities occur during a single alcohol-impaired driving incident.
The conclusion of this case offers resolution to the local community after the fatal crash occurred near a major transit hub. Residents are reminded of the ongoing safety concerns regarding high-speed and impaired driving on regional corridors like Interstate 70.
The takeaway
This case underscores the severe, long-term judicial consequences of impaired driving and hit-and-run incidents. It serves as a reminder of the critical importance of responsible vehicle operation to prevent devastating loss of life.
Further reading
For additional information on local legal proceedings, visit the Dayton Crime — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WKEF.
