Attica man seriously injured after SUV collides with golf cart

Attica, Ohio — The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) is actively conducting an investigation into a two-vehicle collision that transpired on Tuesday at approximately 1:56 p.m.

The incident unfolded on State Route 4, just north of US Route 224, within the confines of the village of Attica in Seneca County. The collision involved a sport utility vehicle (SUV) and a golf cart, resulting in injuries.

65-year-old Randy D. Hammond, of Attica, was operating a black 1971 three-wheel golf cart, heading westward across US 224 from a nearby gas station. Concurrently, Marlene Ruffing, also 65 years of age and from Attica, was driving a black 2011 Ford Explorer, proceeding northbound on State Route 4.

Mr. Hammond failed to yield to oncoming traffic while exiting a private drive, resulting in a collision with Ms. Ruffing’s vehicle, according to OSHP.

The golf cart, lacking seat belts, proved unable to withstand the force of the impact, causing Mr. Hammond to be ejected from the vehicle. He sustained incapacitating injuries as a consequence and was promptly attended to by Bloom-Scipio EMS at the scene. Subsequently, he was transported to a nearby business location before being airlifted via a medical helicopter to Mercy Toledo St. Vincent Hospital for further medical attention.

Ms. Ruffing, who was utilizing her seatbelt at the time of the accident, escaped unharmed. Based on preliminary findings, alcohol and/or drugs do not appear to be factors in the collision, according to OSHP.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol received assistance at the scene from various local agencies, including the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office, AVR Fire District, and Bloom-Scipio EMS. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full scope of the incident and its underlying causes.