Fatal Golf Cart Crash Claims Life of Apple Creek Woman in Wayne County
SUGAR CREEK TOWNSHIP, Ohio — The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash involving a pickup truck and a golf cart that occurred Monday evening on Zuercher Road in Wayne County.
According to troopers from the Wooster Post, the crash happened on Monday, May 18, 2026, at approximately 5:55 p.m. on Zuercher Road, about 0.1 miles south of Baumgartner Road in Sugar Creek Township.
The preliminary investigation indicates a red 2008 Chevrolet Silverado was traveling southbound on Zuercher Road, while a green Tempo golf cart was traveling northbound. Troopers said the golf cart is believed to have been in the southbound lane.
According to the Highway Patrol, the Silverado swerved left in an attempt to avoid the golf cart. The golf cart then reportedly swerved right, back into the northbound lane, where the collision occurred.
The golf cart was being operated by Melvin Schmucker, 80, of Apple Creek, who sustained serious injuries.
A passenger in the golf cart, Katie Schmucker, 78, of Apple Creek, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The driver of the Silverado, Henry Hershberger, 20, of Greenfield, Ohio, was wearing a seat belt and was not injured.
Kidron Fire and EMS, Paul Pratt’s Towing, and the Wayne County Coroner’s Office assisted at the scene.
The crash remains under investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Troopers said alcohol and/or drugs do not appear to be factors in the crash.
