Darke County, Ohio – A 73-year-old woman was injured after her SUV struck a semi-truck on U.S. Route 127 Wednesday morning, prompting an emergency response.
According to a press release from the Darke County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and Ansonia Fire and Rescue responded around 9:30 a.m. to the area of US Route 127 and York Road for a reported two-vehicle injury crash.
Preliminary investigation indicates Esther Heitkamp, 73, of Fort Recovery, was driving a gray Buick Enclave northbound on US 127 when she allegedly fell asleep. Authorities say the vehicle traveled left of center and collided with the tandem trailer tires of a Peterbilt semi.
The semi was driven by Steve Schmitmeyer, 53, of Maria Stein. Officials reported that Schmitmeyer was not injured in the crash.
Heitkamp was transported to Mercer Health Hospital with suspected minor injuries. The extent of her injuries has not been publicly detailed.
Traffic in the area was temporarily impacted while crews responded and investigated the scene. The crash remains under investigation by the Darke County Sheriff’s Office.
Morning commuters along US 127 experienced brief delays during the emergency response.
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