Indiana trucker injured critically in U.S. 127 crash

3/16/2005

VAN WERT, Ohio - An Indiana man was in critical condition yesterday after a head-on collision between two tractor trailers on U.S. 127, about 3 1/2 miles south of Van Wert, the Ohio Highway Patrol said.

The highway remained closed for about 10 hours after the wreck for cleanup.

A northbound semi, driven by Robert Yates 39, of South Whitley, Ind., and loaded with a livestock feed ingredient, went left of center about 10 a.m. and struck a southbound semi loaded with seed corn.

The second vehicle was driven by Mark A. Thompson, 47, of Argos, Ind.

Mr. Yates was taken by medical helicopter to Parkview Memorial Hospital, Fort Wayne, Ind., where he was admitted in critical condition. Mr. Thompson was treated at Van Wert County Hospital.

Portions of both vehicles' loads spilled, as did diesel fuel. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Van Wert County Emergency Management Agency were among those assisting.