Marion, Mansfield drivers injured in head-on collision

IBERIA – Two drivers are expected to be OK after a head-on collision in the northeast corner of Marion County.

Rosella Mattix, driving a 1998 Ford Taurus, was westbound on Ohio 309 when she struck an oncoming 1998 Ford Escort, driven by Oakley Sparks, around 6 p.m. Friday. One witness at the scene said Mattix was attempting to pass a vehicle ahead of her, according to Ohio Highway Patrol Sgt. Todd Cunningham.

Both vehicles were found by emergency responders off the southern edge of the road.

Sparks, 52, of Marion, was "awake and alert" before being flown to a Columbus-area hospital for his injuries, according to Cunningham. Mattix, 31, of Mansfield, was taking to Galion Community Hospital with non-incapacitating injuries. Troopers said both drivers were responsive at the scene.

Drugs or alcohol use are not suspected.

The crash occurred on near the Ohio 100 intersection, which is where an 86-year-old Mansfield man was killed in a fatal car crash in August. Troopers said the man ran a stop sign and struck a dump truck. Officials believe he was not wearing his seat belt.

nbechtel@marionstar.com

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Twitter: @NickMStar