Dalton, OH (August 10, 2026) – Two store employees were injured on Sunday, August 9, after a vehicle entered the BellStores West gas station on South Mill Street.
The driver was not hurt. Both workers inside the business received injuries, and one became trapped behind the counter following the collision.
Responders assisted the employees and took one patient to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The initial report did not describe the second worker’s medical condition.
The business temporarily closed while repairs were planned. The cause of the collision remains under review.
We hope both injured workers recover fully.
The Dangers of Debris and Damaged Fixtures Indoors
Employees inside a store may have little warning when a vehicle crosses a sidewalk or parking area and enters the building. Counters, shelving, glass, and other fixtures can shift suddenly during the impact.
A worker may be struck by debris or become pinned between damaged structures. Sudden force can affect the head, chest, back, arms, or legs, even without direct contact with the vehicle.
Vehicle speed, entry angle, building design, and the placement of protective barriers can influence injury severity. Afterward, structural checks may be needed before the business can reopen safely. Medical evaluations can also identify fractures, bruising, or internal trauma that may not be immediately apparent.
