Ohio Woman Hailed a Hero After Sacrificing Herself to Save Grandson
Circleville, OH – A 52-year-aged Ohio woman, Laura J. Hammond of Mt. Sterling, died on February 27, 2026, after pushing her grandson out of the path of an out-of-control vehicle on Walnut Creek Pike in Circleville. Her selfless act is believed to have saved the child’s life.
Details of the Incident
According to the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred around 10:00 a.m. A 2025 Nissan Sentra, driven by 60-year-old John F. Hill of Circleville, traveled off the west side of Walnut Creek Pike and through two yards before entering a driveway at 2611 Walnut Creek Pike. The vehicle then struck a parked 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, causing it to spin, and simultaneously hit Hammond, pinning her between the two vehicles.
Authorities stated that Hammond moved the young boy, who was playing in the driveway, out of harm’s way just before being struck. Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office Capt. John Strawser told CBS affiliate WBNS, “Laura actually picked up the child and tossed him. At the conclude of the day, it saved his life. And when Laura tossed him, very unfortunately, she took the brunt of the vehicle.”
Injuries and Hospitalization
Laura Hammond was transported by Circleville EMS to Grant Medical Center in Columbus, where she later died from her injuries. The child, Hammond’s grandson, was taken to OhioHealth Berger Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. John F. Hill, the driver of the Nissan Sentra, was likewise transported to Berger Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Ongoing Investigation
The Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, is currently investigating the crash. No further information has been released at this time.
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