In Loving Memory of Gaspar Cedillo Lopez, 28, Tragically Lost in Stark County Collision on U.S. Route 250

In Loving Memory of Gaspar Cedillo Lopez, 28, Tragically Lost in Stark County Collision on U.S. Route 250

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, family, friends, and the entire community gather in remembrance of Gaspar Cedillo Lopez, whose life was tragically cut short in a devastating crash on U.S. Route 250 in southern Stark County. At just 28 years old, Gaspar’s passing has left an immeasurable void — a silence where laughter once lived, and an ache in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

On Thursday afternoon, at approximately 3:43 p.m., tragedy unfolded west of State Route 93 in Sugarcreek Township. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Gaspar was the front right-seat passenger in a 2002 Toyota RAV4 traveling northwest on U.S. Route 250 when the vehicle went left of center and collided head-on with a 2024 GMC Sierra. The force of the impact was catastrophic and forever changed the lives of many families in a single, heartbreaking moment.

Gaspar was transported to Aultman Hospital, where despite the tireless efforts of medical professionals, he was sadly pronounced deceased as a result of the injuries he sustained. The news of his passing spread quickly through New Philadelphia and beyond, bringing shock and deep grief to those who cherished him.

The crash scene was one of chaos and devastation. Three of the four occupants of the RAV4 were ejected from the vehicle, while Gaspar required extrication by the fire department — a testament to the severity of the collision. All four occupants were transported by EMS to Mercy Hospital and Aultman Hospital for emergency treatment. The driver of the GMC Sierra, a 31-year-old man from Michigan, sustained minor injuries and was treated at Mercy Hospital.

First responders from Beach City Fire and EMS, Wilmot EMS, Strasburg EMS, and Tracers Towing worked with unwavering courage, professionalism, and compassion in the face of tragedy. Their swift response reflected the very best of community service during one of the most painful moments imaginable.

Yet beyond the details of the accident, beyond the flashing lights and hospital corridors, there was a young man named Gaspar — a son, a friend, a loved one whose presence brought light into the lives of others.

Gaspar Cedillo Lopez will be remembered not for the way his life ended, but for the way he lived it. Those who knew him speak of his warmth, his hardworking spirit, and the kindness he showed to those around him. He carried himself with quiet strength and a genuine heart. Whether through shared laughter, simple conversations, or acts of support, Gaspar left an imprint on the people fortunate enough to know him.

At 28 years old, he was still building dreams, still shaping his future. His life, filled with potential and promise, reminds us how fragile and precious each day truly is. The grief felt by his family is beyond words — the unimaginable pain of losing someone so young, so loved, so full of life. Friends mourn the loss of a loyal companion. The community mourns one of its own.

In moments like these, we are reminded to hold our loved ones closer, to say the words we sometimes leave unsaid, and to treasure the time we are given. Gaspar’s passing serves as a solemn reminder of life’s unpredictability and the importance of compassion, unity, and support for one another.

As his family navigates this profound loss, may they find comfort in the outpouring of love and prayers surrounding them. May they find strength in shared memories and in the legacy Gaspar leaves behind — a legacy of love, connection, and the simple but powerful impact of a good heart.

Though his journey on earth ended far too soon, Gaspar Cedillo Lopez will never be forgotten. His name will be spoken with love. His memory will be carried forward in the stories told, the tears shed, and the quiet moments of reflection.

May he rest in eternal peace, and may light perpetual shine upon him.