The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reporting 16 people lost their lives in 16 traffic crashes during the 4th of July reporting period, Friday, July 1-Monday, July 4.

Troopers made 444 arrests for impaired driving and 239 for drug-related charges. The Patrol responded to 559 crashes and made more than 33,000 traffic contacts in total. Troopers also provided assistance to more than 2,588 motorists.

During last year’s Fourth of July reporting period from July 2 through 5, a total of 21 fatal crashes killed 23 people. Of those, 12 crashes and 12 fatalities involved alcohol and/or drugs.

Motorists are encouraged to call #677 to report impaired drivers or drug activity.