Serious Injury Crash Under Investigation by Bucyrus Post

Joe Lyons • October 22, 2024

BUCYRUS, OH — The Bucyrus Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a serious injury crash that took place on Tuesday, October 15, at approximately 1:28 p.m. on U.S. Route 23 in Upper Sandusky, Wyandot County.

The initial investigation indicates that a northbound Ram ProMaster van, driven by Dara M. Larochelle, 38, of Powell, struck the rear of a marked Ohio State Highway Patrol Chevrolet Tahoe. The Tahoe was operated by Trooper Jacob M. Teal from the Toledo Post, who was slowing down in traffic at the time of the collision.

Trooper Teal sustained minor injuries and was transported by ground ambulance to Blanchard Valley Hospital, where he is receiving treatment. Larochelle, who sustained more serious injuries, was airlifted to Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo for further medical attention.

Several agencies responded to the scene, including the Wyandot County Sheriff’s Office, Upper Sandusky Fire and EMS, Ohio Department of Transportation, Danner’s Towing and Recycling, and Lemaster Towing and Recovery, LLC.

The crash remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the cause of the collision.