Wagon accident claims life of Apple Creek man at Berlin exotic animal park
Orley A. Miller, 36, 6323 Zuecher Road, was pronounced dead at the scene of an accident at Rolling Ridge Ranch, 3961 County Road 168.
According to Holmes county Sheriff’s reports, the accident occurred at approximately 9:08 a.m. when Miller, who is employed as a driver at the ranch, was giving a tour to some of his relatives in a horse drawn wagon.
Holmes County Sheriff Tim Zimmerly said Miller was leaning against a safety rail that separates the horses from the driver. The rail gave way, causing Miller to fall backward against the horses pulling the wagon, causing the horses to bolt. Miller was run over by the wagon.
The horses continued to pull the wagon a short distance before it struck a tree, injuring five of nine passengers.
The accident occurred when the wagon was stopped to give the passengers a chance to feed some of the park’s animals.
Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Richard Haun said the injuries suffered ranged from “minor to moderate” for the five passengers who were hurt. The injured were transported to Pomerene Hospital and and two persons injured in the accident were taken to Aultman Hospital for further care.
The names of the injured have not yet been released. All were from the Apple Creek area, Zimmerly said.
Zimmerly said Miller’s wife and children came to the accident site after the crash but were not in the wagon when the accident occurred.
Zimmerly said his office does not intend to file a criminal complaint at this time.
Representatives of Rolling Ridge Ranch were unavailable for comment.