Van Wert, Ohio – The Van Wert Post is currently investigating a two vehicle fatal crash. The crash occurred on today’s date at 7:40 am at the intersection of State Route 118 and Wren Landeck Road.
A gray 2012 Dodge Journey driven by Gradi Bokuma, 21 years old, of New Bern, North Carolina, was westbound on Wren Landeck Road. A gray 2005 Honda Accord driven by Sydney Rutledge, 17 years old, of Rockford, Ohio, was northbound on State Route 118. The Bokuma vehicle failed to stop for the posted stop sign at the intersection of Wren Landeck and State Route 118. It entered the intersection and was struck by the Rutledge vehicle. Both vehicles traveled off the northwest side of the intersection striking a utility pole. The Bokuma vehicle rolled onto its side.
The Bokuma vehicle was occupied by three passengers, 14 year old Chosen Bokuma, of Lexington, Kentucky, suffered minor injuries and transported to Van Wert Health, 8 year old Clarvina Mbombo, of Lexington, Kentucky, suffered serious injuries and flown to Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and 46 year old Mubenga “Benita” Mbombo, of Lexington, Kentucky, who died as a result of her injuries sustained in the crash. The driver Gradi Bokuma suffered minor injuries as well and was transported to Van Wert Health.
Sydney Rutledge was the only occupant in her vehicle. She sustained minor injuries and was transported to Van Wert Health.
Troopers were assisted at the scene by the Van Wert Sheriff’s Office, ODOT, Ohio City Fire and Rescue, Van Wert Rescue, Samaritan Air Ambulance, Van Wert Deputy Coroner, Cowan & Son’s Funeral Home, Hague’s Towing, and Straightline Towing. State Route 118 was closed for four hours. Safety belts were worn by all occupants and impairment is not believed to be a factor. The crash remains under investigation.
