1st Traffic Fatality 2012
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today that his office is investigating a single vehicle fatal traffic crash that occurred on Mercer-Darke County Line Rd., just west of Cochran Road. At approximately 5:14 am this morning, the Darke County Sheriff’s Office notified Mercer County Central Dispatch of a motor vehicle crash on the Mercer-Darke County Line Road. After Darke County deputies arrived, it was determined the crash occurred in Mercer County.
The investigation revealed that the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, Lucas E. Staugler, age 22, of 208 Gwendolyn St., Ft. Recovery, was westbound on Mercer-Darke County Line Rd. driving a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix, and went off the right side (North) of the roadway, where he struck a utility pole. The vehicle came to rest in a field. Mr. Staugler was pronounced dead at the scene. He was not wearing a seatbelt.
Mercer County deputies were assisted at the scene by Darke County deputies, as well as members of the Burkettsville Fire Department, Osgood rescue squad and MCERV.
