Two Transported After Three-Vehicle Crash Closes Route 540 Near Ohio Hi-Point Career Center

Two Transported After Three-Vehicle Crash Closes Route 540 Near Ohio Hi-Point Career Center

A multi-vehicle collision involving three separate cars occurred Thursday morning just before 8:00 a.m. on State Route 540 near the entrance of the Ohio Hi-Point Career Center in Bellefontaine, Ohio. The crash resulted in the temporary closure of the roadway and required a significant emergency response from local agencies.

Authorities confirmed that two individuals were transported from the scene to Mary Rutan Hospital for medical evaluation. Fortunately, officials reported that the injuries sustained were non-life-threatening.

This incident highlights the critical importance of defensive driving and adherence to traffic laws, particularly during peak commuting hours near high-traffic educational facilities.

Detailed Sequence of Events and Cause of the Collision

The Bellefontaine Police Department, in conjunction with the Logan County Sheriff’s Deputies, investigated the scene and determined the precise sequence of events that led to the crash. The incident was primarily attributed to a failure to yield while turning left.

The Parties Involved and the Violation

The crash involved three Bellefontaine residents:

1. Gage St. Clair, 18, was driving eastbound on SR 540.
2. Makayla Stambaugh, 20, was driving westbound on SR 540.
3. Julie St. Clair, 55, was driving a third vehicle, stationary at the time.

According to the official report, Gage St. Clair attempted to execute a left turn into the driveway of the Ohio Hi-Point Career Center. In doing so, he failed to yield the right-of-way to the westbound vehicle driven by Makayla Stambaugh. Stambaugh’s vehicle subsequently struck St. Clair’s vehicle.

Secondary Impact and Citation

The initial impact caused Gage St. Clair’s vehicle to then strike the third vehicle, which was driven by Julie St. Clair. The third vehicle was stationary, waiting to exit the career center driveway onto SR 540.

Following the investigation, Gage St. Clair was cited by the Bellefontaine Police Department for failure to yield while turning left.

Multi-Agency Emergency Response and Medical Transport

The severity of the three-vehicle crash necessitated a coordinated response from multiple emergency services in Logan County. The prompt action ensured the injured parties received immediate care and the roadway could be cleared efficiently.

Responding agencies included:

• Bellefontaine Police Department (Investigation and traffic control)
• Logan County Sheriff’s Deputies (Assistance with traffic management)
• Bellefontaine Fire Department (Scene safety and stabilization)
• Bellefontaine Joint Ambulance District (BJAD) (Medical transport)

The two individuals transported to Mary Rutan Hospital were treated for injuries confirmed to be minor and non-life-threatening. The swift response of the Bellefontaine Joint Ambulance District was crucial in ensuring rapid assessment and care for the victims.

“The coordination between police, fire, and ambulance services is vital in managing multi-vehicle incidents, especially on busy commuter routes like State Route 540,” noted a local safety official.

Traffic Safety Context on State Route 540

State Route 540, particularly the section near the Ohio Hi-Point Career Center, experiences heavy traffic flow, especially during morning and afternoon school hours. The presence of a major educational facility entrance requires heightened vigilance from all drivers.

Left turns across opposing traffic lanes are inherently risky maneuvers. When performing such a turn, drivers must ensure they have a clear, safe gap in traffic, as the responsibility for yielding rests entirely with the turning vehicle. The citation issued in this case underscores the legal consequences of misjudging the speed or distance of oncoming vehicles.

Key Takeaways for Local Commuters

For residents and commuters traveling through the area, this incident serves as a reminder of crucial safety practices:

• Allow Extra Time: During 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., traffic density near the Career Center is highest. Plan for delays and avoid rushing.
• Maintain Distance: Ensure ample following distance, especially when approaching intersections or driveways where vehicles may stop suddenly to turn.
• Exercise Caution When Turning: Drivers turning left must wait until the oncoming lane is completely clear or until they can safely complete the maneuver without impeding traffic.
• Heed Emergency Closures: Always follow instructions from law enforcement regarding temporary road closures to ensure the safety of first responders and cleanup crews.

Conclusion

The three-vehicle crash on SR 540 near the Ohio Hi-Point Career Center resulted in two transports to Mary Rutan Hospital with minor injuries and a citation for the driver responsible for the failure to yield. The roadway was reopened after the scene was cleared and the investigation concluded. This event underscores the need for continuous focus and adherence to traffic laws, particularly in high-volume areas surrounding schools, to prevent serious accidents.