A quiet stretch of State Road 218 in Adams County, Indiana, turned chaotic late on October 7 when a motor vehicle crashed into a horse-drawn Amish buggy, sending several people to the hospital and spotlighting the dangers buggies face on modern roads—especially at night.
The Crash
Around 11:20 p.m., first responders arrived to find the buggy destroyed and a Jeep in a nearby ditch. Nine people had been riding in the buggy; seven were injured, including six juveniles. The driver, 32-year-old Ruben L. M. Schwartz of Berne, was airlifted to Lutheran Hospital due to severe injuries. Another adult and five children were taken by ambulance to Parkview Hospital. Two passengers declined treatment.
The Jeep’s driver, 33-year-old Bradley J. Ocilka of Kentucky, reportedly struck the buggy from behind while traveling eastbound. He underwent a legal blood draw but refused further medical evaluation. The crash remains under investigation, and no charges have been filed.
Emergency Response
Agencies from multiple counties—including EMS, police, fire crews, and an air ambulance team—worked together to stabilize victims and clear the narrow rural roadway. Responders noted the difficulty of managing serious crashes in low-visibility, late-night conditions.
Impact on the Amish Community
Adams County is home to a large Amish population that depends on horse-drawn transportation. Crashes like this have ripple effects, impacting not only those injured but the wider community, which often comes together to provide transportation, childcare, and recovery support.
Safety Concerns
Horse-drawn buggies travel slowly and are vulnerable on high-speed rural roads, particularly after dark. Safety experts urge:
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Use of reflective markers and lights
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Slowing down and giving buggies ample space
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Extra caution on narrow, unlit roads
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Public awareness campaigns reminding drivers to watch for slow-moving vehicles
Investigation and Broader Issues
Officials are reviewing speed, visibility, driver attentiveness, and road conditions. The incident highlights long-standing challenges on rural highways where traditional vehicles and modern traffic must coexist.
Conclusion
This late-night crash underscores the need for patience, vigilance, and careful driving around horse-drawn vehicles. As the investigation continues, community support and improved road safety awareness remain essential to preventing future tragedies.