A semi-trailer and a tractor trailer burn after an accident on Wednesday afternoon near exit 104 on Interstate 75 in Botkins. The vehicles were involved in a crash along with another semi-trailer. One driver died as a result of injuries.
Charlotte Caldwell | AIM Media Midwest
Two semi trailers collided before catching on fire at around 3:20 p.m. on Wednesday in the northbound lane of Interstate 75 next to the 104 exit by Botkins.
Luke Gronneberg | Sidney Daily News
BOTKINS — A three-vehicle crash on Interstate 75 killed a Strongsville man on Wednesday afternoon.
According to the Piqua Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Iurie Chetrusca, 43, died as a result of injuries in the crash, which occurred at 3:08 p.m.
The crash involved two semi-trailers and a tractor-trailer on the northbound lanes of I-75 near exit 104, the Botkins Road exit. One of the semis and the tractor-trailer caught on fire as a result of the accident. Traffic was impacted for over three hours, causing significant delays throughout Shelby County.
According to the state patrol’s preliminary investigation, a 2015 International semi was struck from behind by a 2020 Freightliner, which was then struck by a 2023 Volvo tractor-trailer, driven by Chetrusca.
The International came to rest along the right shoulder of the interstate. The Freightliner was disabled in the road and the trailer caught on fire, as well as the cab and trailer of the Volvo.
The driver of the International reported no injuries. The driver of the Freightliner was transported to St. Rita’s Medical Center by ambulance with minor injuries.
The crash remains under investigation.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by Botkins Police Department, Botkins Fire Department, Anna Fire Department, Jackson Center Fire Department, Shelby County Coroner’s Office, Wreckers Towing and Transport and Mantor Auto and Truck Repair.
