Wrong-Way driver causes head-on collision on U.S. 30

Friday, December 5, 2025 at 3:00 PM

By Kathy Bottorff

A wrong-way driver traveling in the eastbound lanes of U.S. 30 caused a head-on collision with a semi-truck Tuesday morning in what authorities say was an intentional attempt at self-harm.

The crash occurred at approximately 9:18 a.m. on Wednesday, December 3rd, on U.S. 30 east of the intersection with Union Road.

According to the Marshall County Sheriff's Department, 70-year-old Rhonda Thompson of Plymouth was driving a 2011 Jeep Liberty westbound in the eastbound lanes of U.S. 30 when she collided head-on with a 2025 International semi-tractor trailer combination driven by 69-year-old Mark Heeter.

Investigators determined that the driver of the Jeep intentionally drove into oncoming traffic in an attempt at self-harm.

Thompson was transported by Plymouth EMS to a hospital for evaluation of minor injuries and mental health treatment. Alcohol is also believed to be a contributing factor in the collision, according to the police report.

Heeter, the truck driver, did not report injuries at the time of the investigation.

Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Marshall County Sheriff's Department, Plymouth Police Department, and Plymouth Fire and EMS Department.

The investigation is ongoing.

Readers are reminded that charging information supported by an affidavit of probable cause is a mere allegation that a crime has been committed and that there is only probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. They are presumed innocent throughout the proceedings and are entitled to be represented by counsel and entitled to a trial by jury at which the State is obligated to provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt before a judgment of guilt may be made.