Late-Night Crash in Indiana Injures Seven After Jeep Strikes Amish Buggy

BERNE, Indiana — A peaceful Sunday night turned tragic when a Jeep collided with a horse-drawn Amish buggy on State Road 218, scattering debris across the rural highway and injuring multiple passengers. The crash occurred around 11:20 p.m. on October 7, drawing a large emergency response to the scene.

According to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, the buggy was carrying nine people when it was struck from behind by a Jeep driven eastbound by 33-year-old Bradley J. Ocilka of Burlington, Kentucky. Seven occupants of the buggy were transported for medical care, including six juveniles and driver Ruben L. M. Schwartz, 32, who was airlifted to Lutheran Hospital. Joseph L. M. Schwartz, 20, and several children were taken to Parkview Hospital, while Saraetta L. Schwartz, 32, and a 2-year-old child declined treatment at the scene. Ocilka was taken for a legal blood draw but declined further medical attention.

Multiple agencies responded, including Adams County EMS, Indiana State Police, and several local fire and police departments. Photos from the site show the buggy shattered along the roadway, its wooden frame splintered and wheels torn apart. Officials described the crash as chaotic but praised the rapid coordination of first responders. The Adams County Swiss-Amish community, known for its close-knit support networks, has rallied around the affected family as they begin recovery.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision, noting that wet nighttime road conditions may have been a factor. The incident underscores the ongoing hazards Amish buggies face on rural highways, particularly after dark. Law enforcement urges all motorists to slow down, allow extra space, and remain alert when approaching slow-moving vehicles to prevent future tragedies.