Patrol car involved in crash on Interstate 75

WAPAKONETA — At approximately 4:55 p.m., Trooper Ryan Lamarr was conducting a traffic stop on the shoulder of Interstate 75, northbound, milepost 116 in Auglaize County.

Lamarr was operating a 2020 Dodge Charger and had his overhead emergency lights activated. He was outside of his vehicle speaking with the driver he had stopped.

A 2000 Peterbilt commercial tractor trailer operated by Gerald Pestana, 53, of Middletown, was traveling northbound in the left lane approaching the patrol car. A 2014 Jeep SUV being operated by Rachel Ott, 24, of Beavercreek was traveling northbound in the left lane in front of the commercial truck. Both vehicles attempted to merge into the right lane and the commercial truck struck the Jeep SUV. Both of these vehicles drove onto the shoulder and struck the unoccupied patrol car.

Pestana was cited for assured clear distance ahead. There were no injuries reported from the parties involved. All three vehicles were towed from the scene due to disabling damage sustained. The right lane of Interstate 75 was closed for approximately two hours as emergency crews cleared the scene. There is no indication that alcohol/drugs were a factor in the crash. All drivers were wearing properly adjusted seat belts. The crash remains under investigation.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging motorists to pay attention, slow down and move over when they see emergency lights.

Agencies assisting at the scene were: Auglaize County Sheriff's Office, Cridersville Fire and EMS, Wapakoneta Police Department, Miller's Towing and Big Daddy's Towing.