CLARK COUNTY – Troopers of the Springfield Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is currently investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash that claimed the life of a Springfield man Sunday on State Route 41.
Nicholas P. Niedbalski, 32, was pronounced dead at the scene of the 2:55 p.m. crash.
He was a passenger in a sport utility vehicle operated by Danielle D. Dukes-Niedbalski, 34, of Springfield.
She was flown by CareFlight helicopter to Miami Valley Hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries.
Troopers report a northbound pickup operated by Zachary A. Payton, 30, of Springfield, was traveling on State Route 41 near Jacksonville Road. Payton reportedly took evasive action to avoid striking a vehicle in the rear, drove left of the center line and struck a southbound SUV operated Dukes-Niedbalski in a head-on collision.
Payton was transported to Springfield Regional Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries.
The crash closed State Route 41 for approximately three hours. Any inquiries reference the crash investigation can be directed to Trooper Kyle Ratcliff of the Springfield Highway Patrol Post.
Troopers were assisted at the scene by the German Township Police Department and German Township Fire and EMS.
The patrol reminds motorists to buckle up and continue to combat distracted driving.