Wayne County, IN (June 15, 2026) – A 70-year-old woman lost her life and two teenagers were seriously injured following a head-on collision on State Road 38 in Wayne County on Saturday afternoon.
According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the crash at approximately 12:30 p.m. on June 13 along State Road 38 east of Jacksonburg Road. Initial reports indicated a head-on collision involving two vehicles with multiple occupants trapped inside.
Investigators said a 2013 Ford Focus driven by a 16-year-old male from Centerville was traveling eastbound when it crossed into the westbound lane and collided with a 2011 Nissan operated by Sue E. Gettinger, 70, of Greens Fork. Another 16-year-old male from Centerville was riding as a passenger in the Ford.
Gettinger suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Both occupants of the Ford Focus became trapped and required extrication by emergency crews. The teenage driver was airlifted by CareFlight to Miami Valley Hospital for treatment, while the passenger was transported to Reid Health with injuries.
Deputies, firefighters, and EMS personnel responded to the scene, and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Team was called in to assist with the investigation.
The crash remains under investigation. Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Sue Gettinger during this difficult time. We also hope the injured teenagers make a full recovery.
What Factors Are Examined During a Head-On Collision Investigation?
Head-on crashes are among the most serious roadway incidents because of the combined force generated when vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide. Investigators conduct extensive reviews to determine how a vehicle entered the opposing lane of travel and what factors contributed to the collision.
Crash reconstruction teams typically examine tire marks, vehicle damage, roadway conditions, witness statements, and electronic vehicle data when available. These findings can help establish vehicle movements and the sequence of events leading up to the impact.
When occupants become trapped inside damaged vehicles, the severity of the collision requires detailed analysis by investigators and emergency responders. Information gathered from the scene can help authorities better understand the circumstances surrounding the crash and identify factors that may have contributed to the fatal outcome.
