1 dead, 1 seriously injured in head-on collision in Huron County: OSHP

Norwalk, Ohio — A fatal head-on collision occurred Wednesday at approximately 3:03 p.m. on Section Line Road 30, north of Old Military Road, in Norwich Township, Huron County, according to the Norwalk Post of The Ohio State Highway Patrol.

The crash involved two vehicles, a white 2017 Ford pickup truck driven by John R. Tracey, 65, of Willard, and a silver 2008 Saturn hatchback driven by Samuel W. Howell, 24, of Crestline. According to the report, Mr. Tracey attempted to pass another northbound vehicle in a no passing zone, causing him to collide head-on with Mr. Howell’s Saturn. Both vehicles came to rest in the roadway.

Mr. Howell, who was not wearing a safety belt at the time of the accident, was trapped in the hatchback and had to be extricated by mechanical means. He died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash, according to OSHP.

Mr. Tracey’s safety belt usage is unknown at this time. He sustained serious injuries and was flown by Mercy Health LifeFlight to Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center.

At this time, it is unclear if alcohol or drugs played a role in the accident. The crash is under investigation by The Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Assisting agencies included the Huron County Sheriff’s Office, Willard Fire and Rescue, Attica-Venice-Reed Fire District, Mercy Health LifeFlight, Huron County Engineer’s Office, The Huron County Coroner’s Office, Secor Funeral Services, and A and M Towing.