Troopers from the Marion Post are investigating a fatal crash that occurred on September 9, 2020, at approximately 1:00 PM on State Route 309 west of milepost 25 in Claridon Township, Marion County.
The crash involved a 2015 Chevrolet Spark, driven by Rick L. Beltz, age 52, of New Bloomington, Ohio,and a 2019 International Tractor and trailer, driven by Jeffrey D. Hunter, age 56, of Decatur, Georgia.Preliminary investigation indicated that Mr. Hunter was traveling east bound on State Route 309. Mr. Beltz was traveling westbound on State Route 309, drove left of the centerline into the eastbound lane and struck the left rear axle of the trailer.
Mr. Beltz was pronounced deceased on scene by the Marion County Coroner, Dr. Mark Davis. Mr. Beltz was not wearing a seat belt a t the time of crash. Mr. Hunter was not injured in the crash.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, First Consolidated Fire Department, Marion Township Fire Department,Ohio Department of Transportation,Kirby’s Towing, and Ed’s Towing.
This crash remains under investigation.