ANNA — Two people were killed and two others were transported to Wilson Health after a three-vehicle crash on Interstate 75 on Monday at 2:21 p.m. near the 97 milepost.
According to Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, William Baughman, 78, of Botkins, and Turaee Manley, 50, of Lima, were killed in the crash.
Baughman, who was driving a Ford truck, was southbound on I-75 when his vehicle crossed the median, striking Manley’s Nissan truck and a Toyota van, both of which were traveling northbound on I-75. According to a Facebook posting by Kah Nursery, Baughman was an employee of the company.
“With a heavy heart we are saddened to inform everyone that William Baughman was involved in a fatal vehicle accident, that not only involved Bill but two other families. Our prayers and thoughts go out to those involved as well. He will be missed by many, his knowledge was vast and irreplaceable,” the Facebook posting said.
The two occupants of the van, who were from Michigan, were taken to Wilson Health in Sidney. They were later transferred to Miami Valley Hospital, Dayton, where their condition is reported to be stable.
According to the release, alcohol and speed do not appear to be factors in the crash. Deputies are investigating if mechanical problems or a vehicle defect caused the Ford truck to have lost control and crossed the median.
Shelby County Sheriff Deputies, Anna Fire Department and Rescue, Sidney Fire Department and Rescue and CareFlight responded to the crash. The Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources also assisted at the scene.
The crash remains under investigation.
