A late-night crash on October 7 turned tragic when a Jeep struck a horse-drawn Amish buggy on State Road 218 near Berne, Indiana. The peaceful rural setting quickly became a chaotic emergency scene as first responders arrived to find the buggy shattered across the roadway and a Jeep in a nearby ditch.
The buggy was carrying nine people at the time of the crash. Seven were injured and transported for medical care, including six juveniles. The buggy’s driver, 32-year-old Ruben L.M. Schwartz, was airlifted to Lutheran Hospital, while 20-year-old Joseph L.M. Schwartz and five minors were taken by ambulance to Parkview Hospital. Two others, including a 2-year-old and 32-year-old Saraetta L. Schwartz, declined treatment.
According to Adams County Sheriff Dan Mawhorr, the buggy was struck from behind by a Jeep traveling eastbound, driven by 33-year-old Bradley J. Ocilka of Kentucky. Ocilka was taken to the hospital for a legal blood draw but refused other medical care. As of the latest reports, no charges have been filed, and the crash remains under investigation.
Emergency services from multiple counties responded to the scene, including EMS units, police departments, fire crews, and a medical flight team. Authorities described the response as swift and complex due to the number of victims and the wreckage spread across the road.
Photos released show the buggy in pieces and emergency lights illuminating the dark rural highway. In the close-knit Amish community of Adams County, such accidents carry a deep emotional toll, especially when multiple family members are involved. Community support is expected to play a key role in the healing process.
This incident underscores the dangers faced by horse-drawn buggies on modern roads. Officials urge drivers to exercise caution, especially at night, and to respect the space and speed differences of these slow-moving vehicles.
