(10-30-26) The Darke County Sheriff’s Office, along with the New Madison Fire Department and Tri-Village Rescue, responded to a serious motor vehicle crash in the 3400 block of State Route 121 at approximately 5:30 p.m. on October 29, 2026.
A preliminary investigation indicates that a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox, driven northbound on State Route 121 by Charlene Flatter, (78), of Wayne Lakes, attempted to turn into the entrance of Wayne Lakes. In doing so, Flatter turned directly into the path of a southbound 2000 Harley-Davidson motorcycle operated by Rickie Hess Jr. (52).
Hess was pronounced deceased at the scene. Flatter was evaluated by medical personnel and released at the scene.
The Darke County Coroner’s Office investigator and the Darke County Sheriff’s Office Accident Reconstruction Team responded to conduct a further investigation.
The crash remains under investigation.
