PAYNE, Ohio — A 19-year-old Payne resident was killed Friday morning following a two-vehicle collision at a Van Wert County intersection, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred at approximately 9:04 a.m. on Aug. 21 at the intersection of U.S. Route 30 and State Route 49 in Tully Township.
Investigators said Kaci Rae Sentelik was driving a 2010 Toyota Corolla southbound on State Route 49 when she stopped at a posted stop sign but failed to yield to westbound traffic on U.S. 30. Her vehicle entered the intersection and was struck on the driver’s side by a 2006 Western Star 4900 truck operated by Gavin Brady Smith, 24, of Quincy, Michigan.
Sentelik sustained fatal injuries in the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities did not report any serious injuries to Smith.
Emergency responders from multiple agencies were dispatched to the crash site, including the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office, Convoy Fire Department, Van Wert Fire Department, the Ohio Department of Transportation, and the Van Wert County Coroner’s Office. The intersection was temporarily affected as crews worked to assist at the scene and conduct the initial investigation.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash. No additional information regarding contributing factors or potential charges has been released.
News of Sentelik’s death has deeply affected the Payne community, where family members, friends, and acquaintances are mourning the loss of a young woman whose life was cut short in a tragic accident.
Community members have shared messages of sympathy and support for Sentelik’s family as they navigate the difficult days ahead. Her death serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences traffic crashes can have on families and communities.
Funeral arrangements and memorial service information have not yet been publicly announced. Authorities encourage motorists to remain attentive at intersections and to exercise caution while traveling on area roadways.
The investigation remains ongoing.
