The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Swanton Post is investigating a multiple vehicle injury crash that occurred on June 26, at approximately 1:59 p.m. The crash occurred in the westbound lanes of the Ohio Turnpike, in Fulton Township, Fulton County, near milepost 43.
Six vehicles, including four semi tractor-trailers, were traveling westbound during a severe weather outbreak. All vehicles began to slow and/or stop when a large gust of wind pushed all four semi tractor- trailers onto their sides—one of which landed on two passenger vehicles.
The drivers of two of the semis were transported with injuries. Marzette Johnson, 62, of Richmond Heights, Ohio, was transported to the Fulton County Health Center. Ray Simmons, 58, of Decatur, Michigan, was transported to Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center. Both sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
As a result of the crash, a large amount of diesel fuel leaked along the roadside. The westbound lanes of the turnpike were closed for approximately three hours.
During the closure, all westbound traffic was diverted off at the Toledo Airport/ State Route 2 exit. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency responded to the scene and is managing the cleanup of the diesel spill.
The patrol was assisted at the scene by the Swanton Fire and Rescue Division, Delta Fire and EMS, Ohio EPA, Ohio Turnpike Maintenance Department, Fulton County EMS and Bubba’s Towing.
The patrol reminds motorists to exercise extra caution when driving during severe weather conditions.
