Jeep Plows into Amish Buggy Near Berne — Father Airlifted, Multiple Children Injured
A Quiet Night Turns Tragic
BERNE, Indiana — What began as a peaceful evening in rural Adams County turned into chaos after a Jeep collided with a horse-drawn Amish buggy
The impact was devastating. The buggy, carrying nine family members, was shattered across the highway, throwing nearly everyone from the vehicle. First responders arrived to a scene of twisted wood, broken harnesses, and flashing emergency lights.
The collision happened around 11:20 p.m. on October 7, leaving the local Amish community in shock.
The Crash and Its Aftermath
According to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office
The buggy’s driver, 32-year-old Ruben L. M. Schwartz of Berne
Other passengers included:
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Joseph L. M. Schwartz (20) — transported by ambulance to Parkview Hospital.
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Five juvenile passengers — also taken for medical treatment.
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Saraetta L. Schwartz (32) and a 2-year-old child — declined treatment at the scene.
Ocilka, the Jeep’s driver, was taken for a legal blood draw but refused other medical attention. Authorities have not yet announced any charges as the investigation continues.
Emergency Response: A Community Mobilizes
The scene quickly filled with emergency teams from multiple departments, including:
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Adams County EMS
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Berne and Geneva Police
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Berne Fire Department
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Wells and Jay County EMS
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Indiana State Police
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Lutheran Hospital’s Flight Team
Sheriff Dan Mawhorr described it as “one of the most chaotic crash scenes we’ve seen on this stretch of highway.”
Emergency responders worked quickly to stabilize victims and clear the roadway, but the emotional toll on witnesses and family members was profound.
The Human Impact: A Family and a Community in Mourning
The Schwartz family belongs to the tight-knit Swiss-Amish community of Adams County, where neighbors often share in each other’s hardships and recovery.
Local residents say that the family’s loss and injuries have rippled across the entire community. Church groups and nearby families are already organizing support efforts and prayer gatherings.
Community leaders urge privacy for the family while they heal but welcome donations and volunteer help through local congregations.
Road Safety Reminder: Share the Road
This crash highlights the
Authorities remind all drivers to:
✅ Slow down when approaching buggies.
✅ Avoid tailgating or sudden passes.
✅ Watch for reflective triangles and lanterns.
✅ Stay alert on narrow rural roads.
Simple caution can prevent tragedies like this one.
Ongoing Investigation
As of the latest update, no formal charges have been filed. The
Updates will be shared as new details become available.
💔 How to Help
If you wish to help the Schwartz family during recovery:
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Contact local churches in Berne or Amish Aid groups
for verified donation channels. -
Respect the family’s privacy.
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Keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
“Tragedies like this remind us how fragile life is — and how strong communities can be when they come together.”
