Updated Aug. 6, 2026, 2:46 p.m. ET
(This story was updated to add new information.)
Columbus — Four people, including two children, were injured in a 4:40 a.m. Aug. 6 crash on West Long Street downtown, police said.
A westbound Kia Optima left the roadway near Marconi Boulevard, went onto the sidewalk, struck two concrete barriers and knocked down a street light, according to a police news release.
The vehicle reentered the road going the wrong way, crossed all lanes and went off the north side of the street, authorities said.
In addition to the driver, another adult was in the front seat and two children were in the back seat, police said.
Medics took the two adults to OhioHealth Grant Medical Center and the children to Nationwide Children's Hospital. The driver was in critical condition; the passengers had injuries that were not life-threatening. As of the afternoon, all four were expected to survive, according to police.
The road was closed for the investigation and reopened just before 7:30 a.m., Sgt. Joe Albert said.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Authorities asked anyone with information to contact the Accident Investigation Unit at 614-645-4767 or provide an anonymous tip to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 624-645-4767.