Fatal Crash in Sugarcreek Township Claims Life of Passenger, Injures Driver

Sugarcreek Township, OH — A tragic accident on Tuesday afternoon on U.S. Route 30 near Kohler Road led to the death of a passenger and serious injuries for the driver of a pickup truck. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP), the incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. when a pickup truck traveling eastbound collided with the rear of a semi-truck.

Officials report that the semi-truck had come to a stop on U.S. Route 30 as it prepared to make a left turn onto Kohler Road. The pickup truck, also traveling eastbound, was unable to stop in time and struck the back of the semi with significant force. Tragically, the impact claimed the life of 41-year-old Adam Sartin, a passenger in the pickup truck, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The pickup truck’s driver, 45-year-old Robert Burr of Massillon, sustained serious injuries and was flown to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment.

Following the crash, emergency responders closed the intersection for approximately two hours to conduct an initial investigation and clear debris from the roadway. Authorities stressed that both Sartin and Burr were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the collision, which may have exacerbated the severity of their injuries. Fortunately, the driver of the semi-truck was unharmed in the accident.

The OSHP is continuing its investigation to determine the exact circumstances leading up to the crash. Preliminary findings suggest that driver inattention or other factors may have prevented the pickup truck from stopping in time. Troopers are also examining the lack of seatbelt use as a potential factor in the outcome of the crash.

This tragic incident has prompted local officials to remind drivers of the importance of wearing seatbelts and maintaining safe distances from other vehicles, especially on highways. Seatbelt use, according to OSHP, is a critical factor in reducing the risk of serious injury or death in accidents of this nature. They are urging drivers to exercise caution, particularly when following large vehicles like semi-trucks, which may require additional stopping distance.

The community mourns the loss of Adam Sartin, while Robert Burr’s recovery remains uncertain as he receives treatment for his injuries. The OSHP plans to provide further updates on the investigation and has expressed their commitment to understanding all contributing factors to help prevent future accidents.