Mother in Amish buggy is killed, eight others [mostly children] seriously injured
TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR
Skyler M. Opelt, age 35, of Medford, is being held in the Taylor County Jail after colliding with an Amish buggy on County Hwy. E in the Town of Little Black in Taylor County on Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2021, at approximately 2:44 p.m., according to the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO).
The Amish buggy contained 10 passengers and 9 were injured as a result of the collision, most with significant injuries. Most of the victims were children, however, the mother who was traveling in the buggy was severely injured in the collision and died on Nov. 26 as a result of those injuries. Names of the victims are being withheld at this time.
Taylor County Sheriff’s Deputies along with Medford Ambulance, Owen Ambulance and Fire, Stetsonville Fire, Gilman Ambulance, Thorp Ambulance, Medvac and medical helicopters were dispatched in response to a 911 call indicating multiple and significant injuries.
TCSO said the investigation is ongoing but preliminary findings indicate the Amish buggy was traveling Northbound on County Highway E with 10 occupants. A vehicle operated Opelt was also Northbound on County Highway E approaching the buggy from behind. The vehicle being operated by Opelt overtook the buggy and struck it from behind at highway speeds.
Opelt is currently in custody at the Taylor County jail. Operating under the influence of a controlled substance and inattentive driving are believed to be factors in the collision.
Charges being referred to the District Attorney’s office at this time include: Seven counts of Operating a Motor Vehicle While Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance Causing Injury; Homicide by Negligent Operation of a Vehicle; and 2nd Degree Reckless Injury. According to the TCSO, Opelt was on probation at the time of the incident and is also being held on a probation hold as a result of this incident.
It should be noted these charging requests can change as the investigation continues.