The Jackson Post responded to a two-car crash on U.S. Route 35 at the entrance to the rest area near mile post 3 in Jackson County.
A Ford Escape pulled from the rest area, failing to yield to a Jeep Wrangler that was westbound on 35. The Jeep struck the driver’s side of the Ford then both vehicles came to rest near the grass median.
The Ford was being driven by 86-year-old Henry Steen of Washington Courthouse, who received serious injuries from the crash. His wife, 76-year-old Bonnie Steen was his passenger and also received incapacitating injuries. Both were flown from the scene by Med Flight and taken to Grant Hospital in Columbus.
The driver of the Jeep was 33-year-old Peter Vanschalk of Gallipolis. He suffered non-incapacitating injuries and was transported from the scene by Jackson County Emergency Medical Services.
Both lanes of Route 35 were closed while the medical helicopters transitioned in and out of the scene. Other agencies on scene included the Jackson County EMS and the Coalton Fire Department.
All parties involved were wearing safety belts and there is no indication of impairment of the drivers in the crash. The crash remains under investigation and no charges have been filed at this time.