It was a calm autumn night in Adams County, Indiana — until just before midnight on October 7, when peace turned to heartbreak.

A Jeep driven by 33-year-old Bradley Ocilka of Kentucky struck a horse-drawn Amish buggy carrying nine people on State Road 218 near Berne. The impact scattered debris across the dark road, leaving several members of the local Schwartz family badly injured.

The buggy’s driver, 32-year-old Ruben Schwartz, was airlifted to Fort Wayne in critical condition. Others, including 20-year-old Joseph Schwartz and five children, were hospitalized. Two passengers — 32-year-old Saraetta Schwartz and a two-year-old — were treated at the scene and released.

“It wasn’t just an accident scene,” one first responder said. “It was our neighbors.”

Investigators say speed, darkness, and poor visibility likely played a role. No charges have been filed.

In the days that followed, the small town of Berne came together — holding vigils, sharing meals, and raising funds for the families. “The Amish are part of who we are,” said one resident. “We all share these roads — and this pain.”

The tragedy has sparked new calls for better lighting and safer conditions on rural roads. And as the Schwartz family continues to heal, their community stands beside them — bound by shared grief and hope that everyone makes it home safely.