PRESS RELEASE – The Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a serious injury crash involving a passenger car and bicyclist in the Village of Paulding. The crash occurred on Emerald Road near Tom-Tim Drive at approximately 6:17 p.m. this evening.
The preliminary investigation revealed that two bicyclists were traveling south west on Emerald Road, near the west edge of the roadway.
A 2014 Chevrolet Cruze, operated by Kara Hart, 30, of Paulding, was also traveling south west on Emerald Road. The Chevrolet failed to maintain assured clear distance, striking one of the bicyclists from behind.
The injured bicyclist, Karen Burnett, 55, of Paulding sustained serious injuries and was transported to Paulding County Hospital by Paulding EMS.
The second bicyclist was not struck by the vehicle and reported no injuries. The operator of the Chevrolet sustained no injuries. Neither bicyclist was wearing a helmet.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds motorists to never operate a vehicle distracted.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office, Paulding Police Department, and Paulding Fire and EMS Services. The crash remains under investigation.