MOUNT GILEAD — The Ohio State Highway Patrol is currently investigating a fatal crash that occurred on Wednesday, Oct. 11, at approximately 7:25 p.m., on IR 71 near mile post 157, in Perry Township.

Shakuilla S. Moore, 20, of Youngstown, Ohio, was driving a gray 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier northbound on IR 71. Kalpana Bhattarai, 22, of Akron, was driving a blue 2015 Chrysler 200 northbound on IR 71. Ms. Moore struck a deer on the roadway while northbound on IR 71.

Bhattarai failed to maintain assured clear distance ahead and struck Moore’s vehicle in the rear causing it to be engulfed in flames.

Moore was pronounced deceased at the scene. Bhattarai was transported to OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital with incapacitating injuries.

It is unknown if Moore was wearing a safety belt at the time of the crash. Ms. Bhattarai was wearing a safety belt at the time of the crash. Alcohol and drugs are not suspected factors in this crash.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by the Mount Gilead Fire Department, Morrow County EMS, and Troy Township EMS.

The crash remains under investigation by the Mount Gilead Highway Patrol Post.

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Staff Report