Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reported that deputies are investigating the fifth fatal traffic crash and the ninth traffic fatality in Mercer County since January 23. Mercer County Central Dispatch received a 9-1-1 call at 2:07 PM Tuesday of an injury crash near the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation revealed that Matthias J. Pearson, 50, 5218 State Route 29, Celina was the driver and sole occupant of a 1995 Pontiac travelling eastbound on State Route 29.

Willie Antuan Brown, 28, 2124 Palisade Blvd, DuPont, WA was the driver and sole occupant of a 2010 International Semi Tractor, without a trailer, westbound on State Route 29 just west of Fleetfoot Road.

Witnesses to the crash stated that Pearson’s vehicle was driving erratically and then veered left of center striking the Semi tractor in the left side fuel tank.

Both Pearson and Brown were transported to Mercer Health by the Mercer County Emergency Squad Service out of Celina. Pearson was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by PUCO, MCERV and Celina Fire Department.