Local News

Dec 31, 2025

Ten, including 8 minors, hurt in two-vehicle crash at SR 29 and Riley Road


CELINA — Ten people, including eight minors, were transported to area hospitals following a two-vehicle crash Monday night at the intersection of State Route 29 and Riley Road in Jefferson Township.

According to the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, the crash was reported around 9 p.m. A 17-year-old male from Celina was driving a gold 2011 Dodge Journey southbound on Riley Road when he failed to stop at the stop sign for State Route 29 and struck a silver 2026 Honda Odyssey traveling eastbound.

Three people were believed to have suffered serious injuries, including the 17-year-old driver, his juvenile passenger, and Emily Vaubel, 40, of Botkins. They were transported to Joint Township District Memorial Hospital in St. Marys for treatment.

The remaining seven individuals involved suffered minor injuries and were taken to Mercer County Community Hospital in Coldwater. Their conditions were unknown as of Tuesday evening.

The Honda Odyssey was driven by Ryan Vaubel, 42, of Botkins. Also in the vehicle were his wife, Emily, their five children ranging in age from 10 to 16, and a 17-year-old female friend from Anna.

The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office said all occupants were wearing seat belts except for three juveniles in the Odyssey. Alcohol or drugs are not suspected to be factors in the crash, and the 17-year-old driver is expected to be cited for failure to stop at a stop sign.

Celina Firefighters Local 2603 reported that crews arrived to find two vehicles, one of which was on its side with two occupants trapped inside. Mercer County Emergency Medical Services and the St. Marys Fire Department assisted at the scene.

The crash remains under investigation.


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