A peaceful evening in the Amish town of Berne, Indiana, turned tragic when a Jeep struck a horse-drawn buggy carrying

a family of nine along State Road 218. The late-night crash scattered wood and belongings across the road, leaving the community stunned.

Seven family members were hospitalized, including several children. The buggy’s driver, 32-year-old Ruben L.M. Schwartz,

was airlifted for treatment, while six others were taken by ambulance. Two passengers declined further care but

were visibly shaken. As news spread, neighbors and church members gathered to pray and support the injured family.

Authorities said the Jeep, driven by 33-year-old Bradley J. Ocilka of Kentucky, struck the buggy from behind

while traveling east. The investigation is ongoing, with multiple emergency agencies praised for their coordinated response.

For this quiet Amish community, the accident served as a sobering reminder of how fragile life is and how crucial

caution remains on rural roads. As the Schwartz family heals, residents continue to surround them with faith,

compassion, and unity—turning tragedy into a shared call for patience, awareness, and care for one another on every journey.