Darke County, Ohio – A two-vehicle crash at a State Route 49 intersection injured one driver Friday afternoon, prompting an emergency response.
According to the Darke County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched around 12:26 p.m. March 27 to the intersection of State Route 49 and Alternate State Route 49 North for a reported injury crash. Arcanum Fire and Rescue and Pittsburg Fire also responded to the scene.
Preliminary investigation indicates a blue Chrysler Town and Country van, driven by James Riggs, 51, of Greenville, was traveling northwest on State Route 49 and allegedly attempted to turn left onto Alternate State Route 49 North in front of an oncoming semi. The van was then struck by a southeastbound Kenworth tractor-trailer driven by Ethan Alshammary, 34, of Columbus.
Riggs was transported to Wayne HealthCare with minor injuries. Authorities said the semi driver was not injured.
The crash temporarily disrupted traffic in the area as crews worked to clear the scene and assess damage. The intersection is a rural connector used by local commuters and agricultural traffic, increasing the risk of conflicts during turning movements.
The investigation remains ongoing. Officials have not indicated whether citations will be issued.
This type of intersection crash can impact midday travel for workers, students, and delivery routes in the area.
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