Jennifer Donley Obituary, Zanesville, OH Death – 45-Year-Old ODOT Bridge Inspector Killed by Freightliner on I-70
The Ohio transportation community is mourning the death of Jennifer Donley, a 45-year-old Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) employee from Lancaster, Ohio, who was fatally struck by a semi-truck while working on Interstate 70 in Zanesville on Monday, November 9, 2026.
Donley was working on the I-70 Reconstruction Project when the collision occurred in an active construction zone. Her death was announced by ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn, who expressed condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.
Details of the Fatal I-70 Accident
According to the preliminary investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 8:09 a.m. near mile marker 154, close to the Maple Avenue off-ramp in Zanesville.
A 2027 Freightliner Cascadia travelling westbound struck Donley while she was working in the construction zone.
The truck was driven by 54-year-old Brian Carter of Indianapolis, Indiana. He was not injured in the incident.
Emergency responders attended the scene, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Zanesville Post began investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Jennifer Donley’s Career with ODOT
Donley joined the Ohio Department of Transportation in 2022 and served as a bridge inspector. Her work placed her on infrastructure and reconstruction projects, including the I-70 project underway in Zanesville.
ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn paid tribute to her colleague, describing her as someone who loved her job and consistently maintained a positive attitude.
The agency also asked the public to keep Donley’s family, friends and everyone affected by the tragedy in their thoughts.
Investigation Continues
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the fatal work-zone collision. The reports reviewed have not announced any charges against the truck driver.
The incident also serves as a reminder of the risks faced by transportation employees working near active traffic.
Jennifer Donley is being remembered by colleagues and members of the transportation community for her years of service and dedication to her work.