Columbus security officer discovers woman killed in freak traffic accident
Columbus OH Jan 22 2021
A 23-year-old woman, who was an Ohio State graduate student, was killed when her head became trapped between her vehicle and a payment machine at a parking garage in downtown Columbus.
Columbus police responded to the garage at 45 Vine Street around 5:40 a.m. Tuesday after a security guard found the woman, who police identified as Victoria Strauss.
A review of security camera footage showed the incident had occurred around 11:30 p.m. Monday, as she was leaving the garage.
While attempting to pay for her parking, Strauss dropped her credit card. She tried to retrieve her card by opening her door and leaning out to pick it up.
Police said Strauss inadvertently accelerated and collided with the parking kiosk. The collision pinned her between her car door and the door frame.
Strauss died as a result of the collision. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Ohio State spokesperson Ben Johnson said Strauss was a graduate student in the College of Social Work.
“We were heartbroken to learn she passed away on Monday, and we extend our deepest sympathy to her family and friends during this difficult time,” Johnson said in an e-mail.
Police said the Accident Investigation Unit is investigating. This is the ninth fatal crash in Columbus this year.
