GRATIS TOWNSHIP, Ohio - A devastating head-on crash claimed the life of Preble County Deputy Joshua Hamilton early Monday morning. The 34-year-old deputy, hailing from Eldorado, Ohio, was involved in a two-vehicle collision on State Route 503. The crash occurred around 4 a.m.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Deputy Joshua Hamilton was driving his marked sheriff's office Ford Explorer southbound when the tragic accident happened. The other driver involved was identified as 36-year-old Michael Eugene Gayhart II, from West Elkton, Ohio. Tragically, Gayhart lost his life at the scene.

Upon receiving the 911 call reporting the crash, fellow deputies rushed to the scene. They discovered Deputy Hamilton's cruiser, indicating the severity of the collision. Hamilton was promptly transported to the Kettering Preble ER Campus in Eaton, but despite the efforts of medical professionals, he succumbed to his injuries.

Deputy Joshua Hamilton, a devoted public servant, joined the Preble County Sheriff's Office in May 2022. Within a year, he was promoted to a road patrol position in June 2023. Additionally, Hamilton served in the United States Navy Reserve and was currently an active member of the United States Army National Guard.

Reacting to the heartbreaking loss, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost released a statement expressing deep sadness and honoring Deputy Hamilton's dedication to his community. Yost described Hamilton as a true hero who had selflessly devoted his life to serving others.

Deputy Joshua Hamilton leaves behind a 10-year-old daughter, further amplifying the tragedy of his untimely demise. As the community mourns the loss of a brave and dedicated officer, investigations into the cause of the head-on collision are underway.

Authorities will thoroughly examine the circumstances leading up to the crash to determine the responsible factors. This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks that law enforcement officers face daily while working to keep their communities safe.

The Preble County Sheriff's Office and the law enforcement community as a whole are united in grief and support for Deputy Hamilton's family, friends, and colleagues during this trying time. Funeral arrangements and honors will be announced in the coming days as preparations are made to bid farewell to a true local hero.