2 men injured in crash in Hardin County

3/18/2013

KENTON, Ohio -- Two Ohio men were injured -- one seriously -- during a two vehicle crash on U.S. Route 68 south of Kenton near milepost 7 at 8:13 p.m., Sunday.

Michael L. Hammond, 37, of Huber Heights was initially taken to Hardin Memorial Hospital and than transported to Grant Medical Center in Columbus for serious injuries.

Hospital officials this morning confirmed that Mr. Hammond was still a patient, but said that hospital policy prevents them from releasing information about the condition of patients.

Steve Slandzicki, 33, of Toledo was also taken to Hardin Memorial Hospital where he was treated and released.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol Mr. Slandzicki's northbound red, 1999 Honda Accord was struck in the rear by by Mr. Hammond's northbound white 1994 Dodge Ram 250 van. 

The Accord came to rest on the left side of the highway and the white van ran off the right side of the road, struck a ditch and came to rest several hundred yards in a field.

Mr. Hammond was not wearing his seat belt at the time, according to reports.

The Highway Patrol was assisted by Hardin County Sheriff's Office, Kento Fire, BKP EMS, Lowery's Towing and Fender Bender's Towing.

Alcohol is believed to be a significant causitive factor the the crash remains under investigation, according to officials.