A woman choking on a french fry crashed her vehicle into a gas station awning Sunday afternoon, causing a partial collapse and minor damage to another car, according to police.
The crash happened shortly after noon on South Street in Wilmington. Authorities said the vehicle left the roadway and entered the parking lot of a Sunoco gas station, where it struck a pole supporting the station’s awning. The impact caused part of the awning structure to collapse.
A witness at the scene told law enforcement that they saw the car travel from South Street into the gas station parking area before hitting the pole.
An officer responding to the scene spoke directly with the driver following the crash. According to the report, the woman said she did not remember the moments leading up to the collision. She told police that she experiences a dry spot in her throat that can cause her to choke.
During this incident, the driver said she choked while eating a french fry, which she believes led to the crash. Police said the vehicle also made contact with another car while in the parking lot, though no serious injuries were reported.
Emergency crews responded to assess the scene and ensure the awning was stable following the partial collapse. The damaged support pole and overhanging structure raised safety concerns, and the immediate area was secured while responders evaluated the extent of the damage.
Police in Ohio confirmed that the driver attributed the crash to choking on food and not to any mechanical issue or outside factor. There was no indication from authorities that alcohol or other substances played a role in the incident.
The crash caused temporary disruption at the gas station, but no further structural failures were reported. Officials did not release additional details about potential charges or citations related to the crash.
Incidents involving medical episodes while driving are treated on a case-by-case basis, and police noted the circumstances would be documented as part of their standard investigation. The case remains a reminder of how quickly an everyday moment can turn into an unexpected emergency behind the wheel.
Via Wilmington Police Department
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