In the aftermath of the tragic Ohio chain-reaction collision on November 14 that claimed six lives, documents obtained by ABC News reveal a troubling history of violations for Mid State Systems, the trucking company involved in the incident. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the collision occurred on I-70 in Licking County when a Mid State Systems truck operated by Jacob McDonald rear-ended a car, setting off a devastating chain reaction.
The collision involved a coach bus, Tuscarawas Valley High School students, and vehicles operated by G.A. Wintzer & Son Co. Unfortunately, three students lost their lives in the accident.
Documents obtained under the Ohio Public Records Act expose that the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio had previously flagged numerous issues with Mid State Systems’ trucks, including those operated by McDonald. The commission, responsible for regulating commercial transportation companies in the state, had raised concerns about defective brakes and other violations.
Mid State Systems’ Lee Zazworsky expressed condolences to the affected families and mentioned the ongoing investigation, refraining from further comments at this time.
The documents also reveal that G.A. Wintzer & Son Co. received a letter from the commission on the day of the crash, citing violations such as “brake connections with leaks or constrictions,” “failing to secure load,” and “inadequate brakes for safe stopping – brake lining condition.” Company president Sean Wintzer contested the findings, stating that they disagreed with the commission’s conclusions and believed the accident caused the noted conditions.
Further inspection into Mid State Systems’ history shows a 2020 accusation by the commission of multiple violations, resulting in a $150 fine. In 2021, another inspection prompted a $100 fine, alleging similar violations, including defective brakes. In 2022, the commission accused McDonald of exceeding the 14-hour duty period, without assessing a fine.
Less than three weeks before the fatal collision, the commission reached a settlement with Mid State Systems for $805, addressing issues related to “brake hose or tubing chafing and/or kinking” and placard/marking problems with a different driver.
The National Transportation Safety Board is actively investigating the November crash. While no charges have been filed by law enforcement officials as of now, the emerging history of violations raises critical questions about the company’s adherence to safety regulations.