Two Fatalities Reported in Head-On Collision Near Ranchester

Two Florida residents died at the scene of a head-on collision on US Highway 14 outside Ranchester on Monday, October 7, according to a release from the Wyoming Highway Patrol.

The crash involved a 2021 Jeep driven by 58-year-old Steven Paulson, who was traveling eastbound in a 65-mile-per-hour zone when the vehicle negotiated a right-hand curve. The Jeep collided head-on with a westbound 2024 Chevy Silverado, which was driven by 79-year-old John Ori from Gulf Breeze, Florida. The Chevy also carried a passenger, 73-year-old Jay Foose from Inglis, Florida. Both Ori and Foose were pronounced dead at the scene.

Paulson was taken by ambulance to Sheridan Memorial Hospital for treatment of his injuries. The Wyoming Highway Patrol crash team is currently analyzing on-scene evidence and driver-vehicle input information prior to the crash as part of their investigation.

Authorities are examining driver behavior, speed, and inattention as potential contributing factors to the accident.

With input from Oil City News.