Troopers of the Marysville Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol have concluded that Logan County Sheriff’s deputy, Benny Stacy, who was operating a marked cruiser involved in the March 3 two-vehicle crash was at fault in the incident.
Below is a media release concerning the crash investigation.
The Marysville Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a two-vehicle injury crash. The crash occurred yesterday, March 3, at approximately 5:18 p.m. at the intersection of U.S. Route 68 near County Road 57 in Lake Township, Logan County.
The preliminary investigation revealed a 2016 Ford Explorer, operated a 15-year- old female, and a 2021 Ford Explorer – a Logan County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) marked cruiser, operated by Benny Stacy, 27, Bellefontaine, were traveling north on U.S. Route 68. The LCSO unit was in emergency response, with their overhead lights activated, and attempted to pass on the left of the 2016 Ford.
At this time, the 2016 Ford was attempting to turn left at the intersection to travel west onto County Road 57, and was struck by LCSO cruiser. After being struck, the 2016 Ford traveled off the left side of the roadway, overturning. The LCSO cruiser also traveled off the left side of the roadway and again made contact with the 2016 Ford before coming to final rest.
The female minor was transported by ground ambulance to Mary Rutan Health with minor injuries. Her passenger, Heath Murphy, 44, Bellefontaine, was transported by MedFlight to Grant Medical Center with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.
Stacy and his passenger, Zach Sheeley, 29, Bellefontaine, were transported by ground ambulance to Mary Rutan Health with minor injuries.
The Patrol was assisted at the scene by MedFlight, Indian Lake EMS Joint Ambulance District, Huntsville Volunteer Fire Department & EMS, Wren’s Service Station and Ace’s High Towing & Detail.
Stacy was found to be at fault for the crash and cited for O.R.C. 4511.30A3 – Prohibition Against Driving Upon Left Side Of Roadway < 100 Ft Of Intersection Or Railroad Crossing and O.R.C. 4511.263B1 – Operator Seatbelt Required.