Ronald Kuyken, 74, and Susan Kuyken, 65, both of Fremont, died Friday afternoon after their Harley-Davidson was struck by a car driven by 29-year-old Hadiya Batts, who investigators say failed to yield at a stop sign in Hopewell Township, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Two Fremont residents were killed Friday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash involving a motorcycle and a car at an intersection in Seneca County, Ohio, according to the Norwalk Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
What Happened
The crash occurred at approximately 2:50 p.m. Friday at the intersection of State Route 18 and County Road 26 in Hopewell Township.
According to the Patrol’s preliminary investigation, a 2015 Ford Taurus driven by 29-year-old Hadiya Batts of Tiffin was traveling westbound on County Road 26. Investigators say Batts failed to yield at a posted stop sign and entered the intersection, where her car struck a 2015 Harley-Davidson Freewheeler traveling northbound on State Route 18.
The motorcycle was operated by Ronald Kuyken, 74, of Fremont, with his wife, 65-year-old Susan Kuyken, riding as a passenger.
The Victims
Ronald Kuyken suffered fatal injuries in the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene. Susan Kuyken was seriously injured and transported by ambulance to Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital, where she later died despite medical treatment.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol said neither Ronald nor Susan Kuyken was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Batts sustained minor injuries in the collision but refused medical treatment at the scene. According to investigators, she was wearing her seat belt.
Emergency Response
The crash prompted a large emergency response. Agencies assisting at the scene included the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office, Bascom Fire Department, Tiffin EMS, Mercy Health Life Flight, John’s Towing, the Seneca County Coroner’s Office, the Seneca County Department of Transportation, and the Ohio Department of Transportation.
The intersection and surrounding roadways were closed for approximately two hours while emergency crews and investigators worked the scene.
Investigation Ongoing
The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash. As of this report, investigators have not released any information about potential citations or charges against Batts.
