Highway Patrol Investigating Fatal Crash

(From the Ohio State Highway Patrol)

On November 12, 2024, at approximately 4:40 P.M, troopers with the Lima Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol were notified of a multi-vehicle crash on state Route 81 at the intersection of Hardin Rd. in Allen County.

Nancy E. Weese, age 84, of Columbus, OH was operating a 2014 Honda CR-V southbound on Hardin Rd, approaching the intersection of state Route 81. Mrs. Weese failed to stop at the stop sign at state Route 81 and was struck by a westbound 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, operated by Samantha E. Hilton, age 32, of Dunkirk, OH. Immediately after the collision, the Honda CR-V was struck again by an eastbound 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Jeffrey R. Barnes, age 43, of Ada, OH. The Honda CR-V went off the roadway and came to rest on the southwest side of the intersection. The other two vehicles came to final rest on the roadway. All three vehicles sustained disabling damage.

Nancy Weese was pronounced deceased on scene by the Allen County Coroner’s Office. Richard Weese was transported to Lima Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Samantha Hilton was transported to Lima Memorial Hospital for suspected minor injuries. Jeffrey Barnes sustained suspected minor injuries, but was not transported. All occupants involved in the crash were reportedly wearing seatbelts. Alcohol or drugs is not suspected to be a factor.

Assisting troopers on scene were the Allen County Sheriff’s Office, Allen County Coroner’s Office, H&H Funeral Services, Lafayette-Jackson Township Fire and EMS, Ada Liberty EMS, A&D Towing, Miller Auto and Able Wrecker Service. The intersection was completely closed for approximately three hours, and has since been re-opened. The crash remains under investigation.