Jeep–Buggy Collision in Rural Indiana Injures Several, Including Children

BERNE, Indiana — A tragic late-night crash on State Road 218 left multiple people injured after a Jeep collided with a horse-drawn Amish buggy on October 7.

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office reported that the buggy, carrying nine people, was struck from behind by an eastbound Jeep driven by 33-year-old Bradley J. Ocilka of Burlington, Kentucky. The impact destroyed the buggy, ejecting several passengers and scattering debris across the roadway.

Seven victims were transported for medical care, including six juveniles. The buggy’s driver, Ruben L. M. Schwartz, 32, suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to Lutheran Hospital. Joseph L. M. Schwartz, 20, and five juveniles were taken to Parkview Hospital. Two others — Saraetta L. Schwartz, 32, and a 2-year-old child — declined treatment at the scene.

Ocilka was given a legal blood draw but refused further medical attention. As of now, no charges have been filed, and the crash remains under investigation.

Responding agencies included Adams County EMS, Indiana State Police, and multiple fire and police departments from surrounding towns. Officials said crews worked for hours to treat victims and clear the wreckage.

Authorities emphasized that the crash highlights ongoing safety challenges on rural roads where horse-drawn vehicles and modern traffic share space — a reminder of the risks faced by Amish communities across Indiana.