A tragic incident unfolded in Wayne County yesterday, claiming the life of an Orrville man and leaving another with severe injuries. As reported by News 5 Cleveland, a pick-up truck collided with a semi on US-30 near Kohler Road. The pick-up, carrying two men, failed to prevent colliding with the rear of the semi as it made a left turn. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the accident occurred around 2:30 p.m.
The impact of the crash led to the unfortunate death of the pick-up's passenger, identified as 41-year-old Adam Sartin, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The 45-year-old Massillon man driving the pick-up suffered critical injuries and was airlifted to Akron General Hospital for treatment, as Cleveland19 News details. Neither victim was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident, a detail confirmed by troopers at the scene.
The semi-truck involved was a 2024 International model, pulling a Hyundai van trailer and operated by Issai Capetillo, a 34-year-old Pleasantville, New Jersey resident. Capetillo came away from the collision unscathed. The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating the circumstances that led to the crash. The reports from the authorities indicate that traffic on US-30 was disrupted for around two hours due to the investigative work and subsequently required clean-up, as per information from WNCO.
Such incidents serve as jarring reminders of the fragility of life and the chain of events that can swiftly alter to become a tragedy. The investigation continues into what exactly transpired on that stretch of road and whether any charges will be filed. In the interim, the communities in Wayne County mourn the loss of one of their own and hope for the recovery of the injured driver. Further details will be provided as they become available.