A mother of three tragically lost her life when her SUV was struck by a large tree while driving on a highway in Ohio over the weekend, local authorities reported.
Bridget E. Regan, 35, from Minerva, was driving a 2023 Jeep Wagoneer westbound on Route 30 in Paris Township around 5:24 p.m. Saturday when a tree fell from the surrounding woods, hitting her vehicle. Unfortunately, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Lieutenant Johnny Meyer of the Ohio State Highway Patrol commented on the incident, trying to piece together the factors that led to such a freak accident. “We’re looking into whether the ground was saturated or if the trees were decayed—things like that,” he explained. “It all points to God’s work.” He also reflected on the randomness of the tragedy, stating, “This could have happened to anyone, but in this case, it happened to a young woman with a family.”
Regan was a respected small business owner in her community, having founded Chic Haven, a boutique specializing in clothing and home decor.
Her unexpected death reverberated through Minerva, bringing grief from family, friends, business peers, and community members. The Minerva Area Chamber of Commerce extended “deepest condolences” to her family and acknowledged Regan as a valuable part of the local business scene who brought “incredible energy, warmth, and joy” to everyone around her.
“Her presence touched so many people,” the chamber stated, adding that the impact of her loss “will be felt for a very long time.”
Regan also actively contributed to her community. Last year, she urged friends on social media to donate to a local nonprofit organization, SAVE22 Veterans, which aims to support veterans and raise awareness about veteran suicide. “I chose this nonprofit because its mission means a lot to me,” she wrote, expressing her hope that others would consider contributing to the cause.
In a heartfelt Facebook message, Chic Heaven Boutique mourned her passing, sharing sentiments from her sister Kelly. “There are no words that can truly express the heartbreak and emptiness we feel,” the message read. The boutique further emphasized that Regan devoted so much of herself to her business while making a positive impact on those in her community.
“We will do our best to honor her memory and the legacy she created,” the post stated.
A GoFundMe page established by Regan’s sister aims to raise funds for funeral and memorial costs, as well as to support her three children.
“Bridget was a loving mother to her three young children, who were the center of her world,” the fundraising campaign noted. It also highlighted that she was deeply cherished as a daughter, sister, and friend, and her passing has left a significant void for many who knew her.
Friends and customers took to social media to share their condolences, reminiscing about Regan as a kind and supportive individual. One person noted her willingness to offer advice and listen to new mothers, while another described her as a warm embrace for families in the community. Many recalled her as “such a light” in their lives, with remarks about her “kindest heart.”
In a tribute to Regan, a local business, Gardner Candle Company, created a memorial candle featuring her favorite scents, with all proceeds going to support her family. “Some people leave behind a light that can never be dimmed. Bridget Regan was one of those beautiful hearts,” the company remarked, acknowledging that Regan had been a supporter of their business and often collaborated with them during local events.
