Suspected Impaired Driver Causes Head-On Collision

American Township – On December 3, 2024, at approximately 3:40 P.M. troopers with the Lima Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol were dispatched to state Route 309 near Grubb Road for a report of an injury crash.

During the investigation, it was found thatJoseph D. Fritts, age 34, of Lima, was operating a 2008 Ford F-150 pickup truck westbound on state Route 309 and crossed over the yellow center line into oncoming traffic. Alexis M. Miller, age 23, of Van Wert, was operating a 2010 Buick LaCrosse eastbound on state Route 309 when struck head-on by the F-150. The F-150 went off the south side of the roadway, and the LaCrosse came to final rest on the roadway.

Joseph D. Fritts was transported by American Township EMS to St. Rita’s Mercy Health for reported minor injuries. Alexis Miller was transported by American Township EMS to St. Rita’s Mercy Health with reported minor injuries. There were two passengers in the Buick LaCrosse. Evan M. Miller, age 20, of Van Wert did not sustain injury. Sierra N. G. Adams, age 22, of Van Wert was transported by private vehicle to St. Rita’s Mercy Health with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. All occupants who were required to wear a seatbelt were reportedly wearing a seatbelt. Drug impairment is suspected to be a factor in the crash for Mr. Fritts.

Assisting troopers on scene were deputies with the Allen County Sheriff’s Office, American Township Police, American Township Fire & EMS and Able Towing. State Route 309 was closed near Grubb Rd. for just over an hour, and has since been re-opened. The crash remains under investigation.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol would like to remind motorists to never drive under the influence or alcohol or drugs, and to always wear a properly adjusted seatbelt.