Fatal accident in Putnam County

(From the Ohio State Highway Patrol)

On October 23, 2024, at approximately 8:07 p.m., the Ohio State Highway Patrol Lima Post responded to a report of an injury crash. A crash involving two injured vehicles reportedly occurred on County Road 21 north of County Road G in Putnam County.

During the investigation, it was discovered that a 2006 Pontiac Torrent, driven by 45-year-old Thomas S. Elkins of Continental, Ohio, was traveling south on County Road 21.

A 2008 Honda Shadow, driven by 34-year-old David E. Wagner of Continental, Ohio, was traveling north on County Road 21.

Mr. Elkins attempted to turn left onto a private road, 6515 County Road 21, and was struck by Mr. Wagner's motorcycle.

Mr. Elkins suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene by Continental EMS.

Mr. Wagner was initially transported to Putnam County Ambulatory Care but was later flown by Mercy Health Life Flight to Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries on October 24, 2024.

It is believed that speed was a factor in the traffic accident.

Mr. Elkins was not secured with a properly adjusted restraint system and Mr. Wagner was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Putnam County Sheriff's Office, Continental Fire Department, Continental EMS, Mercy Health Life Flight and Meyer's Towing. The crash is still under investigation.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds motorists to always wear a properly adjusted safety restraint and encourages motorcyclists to wear a helmet.