Authorities in Ohio are searching for the driver of a red van who caused a multi-vehicle crash on a busy highway after abruptly stopping in the middle of the road, then fleeing the scene, as reported by Fox News.

The incident, which was captured on video, was posted by the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and is now under investigation.

The video footage, shared by ODOT on May 1, shows a red van traveling along a major interstate in Columbus before coming to a complete stop in the middle lane after apparently missing an intended exit.

Two cars behind the van managed to stop without impact, but a third vehicle was unable to brake in time and rear-ended the vehicle in front of it, triggering a chain-reaction crash.

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Immediately after the collision, the red van is seen accelerating and taking the very exit it had initially missed. The driver did not stop or attempt to provide aid to the other drivers involved.

ODOT used the video as a public safety message, posting on Facebook:

“When you are driving along a major interstate and you miss your exit do you: A) keep driving and get off at the next one or B) come to a complete stop, cause a multi-car rear-end crash and then drive away.”

The department added, “HINT: The answer is NEVER B. Do not be this driver.”

According to ODOT and local outlet Fox 8, the crash did not result in any life-threatening injuries, though multiple vehicles sustained significant damage.

As of Friday, the driver of the red van had not been located. Columbus Police were contacted for comment, but did not immediately respond to media inquiries.

NEW: Individual driving a red van stops in the middle of Interstate 71 in Ohio to merge into an exit lane, causing a multi-car pileup before driving off. This makes my blood boil. The footage was shared by the Ohio Department of Transportation. "If you miss your exit, do NOT… pic.twitter.com/piDUqCZtYc

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) May 1, 2025

The footage has been widely circulated on social media and has prompted renewed calls from traffic safety officials urging drivers to never stop on an active roadway unless absolutely necessary.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the identity or whereabouts of the red van’s driver to contact law enforcement.

The incident is one of several recent highway crashes in the state involving sudden or illegal maneuvers. Police say the red van’s driver could face charges including leaving the scene of an accident and reckless operation of a vehicle once located.