Tye David Miezejewski Obituary; Man from Ashland County Receives Sentencing of 7 to 10.5 Years for Deadly Accident that Claimed the Life of a 12-Year-Old Boy

 James D. Taylor, a 55-year-old from Ashland, received a prison sentence ranging from seven to ten-and-a-half years on Monday, November 10, 2025, following his involvement in the accident in 2024 that resulted in the death of 12-year-old Tye David Miezejewski. Taylor admitted guilt to charges including aggravated vehicular homicide, involuntary manslaughter, and numerous counts of operating a vehicle while under the influence (OVI) after the fatal incident.

The accident took place on May 24, 2024, in Sullivan Township when Taylor, driving a 2009 Chevrolet Silverado, collided with Miezejewski, who was cycling on County Road 681. The collision occurred around 3:39 p.m., with Taylor's vehicle heading south when it hit the boy, who was also traveling southward on his bike. Despite prompt medical assistance, Miezejewski, who was flown to Akron Children’s Hospital, passed away from his injuries two days later on May 26.

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After the crash, Taylor stayed at the scene and was taken into custody for driving under the influence of alcohol. Investigators found that alcohol was a contributing factor in the incident. Although Taylor did not sustain any injuries in the collision, the boy's death intensified the seriousness of the charges against him.

In court proceedings, Attorney Patrick Michael Farrell represented Taylor, while Assistant Prosecutor Christopher Tunnell stood for the State of Ohio. The prosecution highlighted the severity of the situation, emphasizing the unfortunate outcomes resulting from Taylor’s actions. Judge David R. Stimpert examined all facets of the case, including input from the victim’s family, the defense's arguments, and Taylor’s own statements during allocution.

After reviewing the statutory sentencing criteria and the statements regarding the victim's impact, Judge Stimpert concluded that a prison sentence was warranted and fitting, judging that community control would not suffice for Taylor. Consequently, the judge sentenced him to seven to ten-and-a-half years, adhering to Ohio’s indefinite sentencing guidelines. Taylor may be eligible for release after completing the minimum seven years; however, the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) could prolong his sentence under specific circumstances.

Once he is released, Taylor must adhere to 18 months to three years of mandatory post-release supervision. If he breaches the conditions of his post-release control, he could incur additional prison time, potentially facing up to nine months for each infraction, along with further incarceration if he commits a new felony while under supervision.

Alongside his prison term, Taylor was mandated to pay associated court costs and fees linked to his case, which include a $30 fee per R.C. 2949.091, a $25 fee under R.C. 120.36, and a $30 fee payable to the Ohio Treasurer as per R.C. 2743.70. He is also obligated to pay $240 for pretrial drug and alcohol screenings. Taylor received 11 days of jail-time credit and will gain additional credit for the days spent waiting for his transfer to prison.