PIKE COUNTY, Ohio — A devastating collision at the intersection of State Route 32 and US23 in Pike County on Thursday, April 17 has left one person dead and two others injured, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred at 4:08 p.m. when James Pertuset, 93, of Peebles, driving a 2017 Cadillac CTS northbound on US23, failed to yield at a stop sign and entered the path of an eastbound 2007 Peterbilt 379 series truck driven by Tyler Walton, 29, of Wellston, Ohio. The truck struck the Cadillac, causing it to spin into a 2011 Kia Sorento, driven by Annette Peck, 63, of Wheelersburg, Ohio, which was waiting to turn from SR32 onto US23.
James Pertuset and his passenger, Leona Pertuset, 95, also of Peebles, were transported to Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus for treatment of their injuries. Tragically, Leona Pertuset succumbed to her injuries on Sunday, April 21, at 5:05 p.m. Annette Peck reported non-life-threatening injuries at the scene, while Tyler Walton reported no injuries.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol, assisted by the Seal Township Fire Department, Portsmouth Ambulance, and Pike County Sheriff’s Office, is investigating the crash. Authorities have not yet announced whether charges will be filed.
The intersection was temporarily closed for emergency response and investigation but has since reopened. The Ohio State Highway Patrol urges drivers to exercise caution and adhere to traffic signals to prevent such tragedies.
This story is based on information provided by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.