ZANESVILLE, Ohio (AP) — The State Highway Patrol says a two-vehicle crash in Ohio has killed three people, including an off-duty deputy, and injured four children.
The patrol says the crash just before 9 a.m. Wednesday occurred on U.S. 22 in Muskingum County. A patrol release says preliminary reports indicate a pickup truck driven by Muskingum County Deputy Zackary Smith went left of center, striking a minivan with six occupants.
The patrol says the 21-year-old Smith, of Roseville, was pronounced dead at a hospital.
Troopers say the minivan’s driver, 26-year-old Courtney Strate, and front-seat passenger, 47-year-old Michelle Moody, died at the scene. Both women were from East Fultonham.
Four children, ranging in age from 2 to 6, also were in the minivan. Authorities say they were hospitalized with injuries.
The crash remains under investigation.