Blue Creek Township – The Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a single vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Township Road 48, east of Township Road 79 in Paulding County.
On August 31, 2016, at approximately 11:55 P.M., a 1997 Ford pickup truck operated by Philip D. Miller, age 53, of Haviland, Ohio was traveling west bound on Township Road 48 and traveled off the right side of the roadway. The vehicle struck a utility pole and re-entered the roadway before traveling off the left side of the roadway. The vehicle entered a cornfield and overturned, ejecting the driver. The vehicle came to final rest on Township Road 79, south of Township Road 48.
Mr. Miller was pronounced dead at the scene by Paulding County Coroner Dr. Joseph Kuhn. He was transported by Scott EMS to the Paulding County Morgue.
Mr. Miller was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. Alcohol is suspected to be a factor in the incident. The crash remains under investigation.
The Van Wert Post was assisted by the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office, Scott Fire and EMS, and Gideon’s Towing.
For the upcoming Labor Day weekend, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds motorists to designate a sober driver, do not drive distracted, and always wear your safety belt.
