Convoy area bike rider killed in accident

VW independent/submitted information

CONVOY — The Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a crash involving a van and bicycle that occurred on Ohio 49 near milepost 15 in Van Wert County.

At approximately 8:35 p.m. Sunday, Crystle L. Brower, 39, of rural Convoy, was riding her bicycle northbound on Ohio 49 when a 2004 Chevrolet minivan driven by Ray A. Litmer, 57, of Convoy, also northbound, struck Brower’s bicycle from behind.

Brower was pronounced dead at the scene scene by Assistant Coroner Christine Ulrich. Litmer was not injured.

The crash resulted in a closure of State Route 49 just north of Wolfcale Road, but the roadway has since been reopened.

The Van Wert Post was assisted by the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office, Van Wert Fire Department Advanced Life Support, Convoy Fire and EMS, Brickner Ambulance Service, and Straightline Towing.

Alcohol is not believed to be a factor, but the crash remains under investigation.