Eclista M. Birner Obituary, Death – An 89-year-old woman lost her life and two others sustained serious injuries following a two-vehicle collision in Miami County on Saturday morning. Authorities from the Indiana State Police Peru Post, the Miami County Sheriff’s Office, and the Peru Police Department responded to the scene just after 10:30 a.m. The crash occurred on Meridian Road near East County Road 500 North and involved two Chevrolet SUVs.
According to preliminary findings, 53-year-old Jennifer K. Workman of Peru was driving a 2020 Chevrolet Blazer heading north on Meridian Road. Her passenger was identified as 32-year-old Tiffany D. Baker, also from Peru. Investigators say that while Workman was attempting to pass another vehicle, her SUV collided with a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox driven by 62-year-old Neal W. Birner of Peru.
Inside the Equinox were two passengers, identified as 89-year-old Eclista M. Birner and 68-year-old Michael V. Birner, both residents of Peru. The collision caused significant damage to both vehicles and resulted in multiple injuries.
Emergency responders arrived quickly and worked to provide aid to everyone involved. Despite their efforts, Eclista Birner was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Miami County Coroner’s Office. Jennifer Workman and Michael Birner were airlifted by Lutheran Air to nearby hospitals due to serious injuries. Neal Birner and Tiffany Baker were taken by ambulance to local medical centers for treatment of less severe injuries.
Authorities temporarily closed part of Meridian Road to allow investigators to examine the scene and remove the vehicles. Crews from multiple agencies, including fire and rescue teams, assisted with the cleanup and ensured the area was safe before reopening the road to traffic.
The Indiana State Police continue to investigate the incident to determine the contributing factors. They will review evidence such as vehicle positions, roadway conditions, and witness statements to piece together exactly how the crash occurred. Officials have not released details on whether speed, visibility, or other conditions played a role.
Residents in the Peru community have expressed their condolences to the Birner family and others affected by the crash. Friends described Eclista Birner as a kind and gentle person who was deeply involved in her community. Local leaders have also reminded drivers to use extra caution when passing on two-lane roads, especially in rural areas where visibility may be limited.
State Police emphasized the importance of defensive driving and awareness at all times. They encouraged motorists to slow down, allow extra distance between vehicles, and only pass when it is completely safe to do so. Such precautions, they said, can help prevent tragedies and reduce the number of severe accidents on county roads.
Miami County authorities have expressed gratitude for the coordinated response among local emergency services, noting that cooperation between multiple agencies helps ensure timely medical assistance and thorough investigations.
As of Saturday evening, Workman and Michael Birner remained under medical care. Updates on their conditions have not been released. The other two individuals, Neal Birner and Tiffany Baker, are expected to recover from their injuries.
The Miami County Sheriff’s Office and Indiana State Police will continue their joint investigation. Once completed, their findings will be reviewed to determine if any additional steps or safety recommendations are necessary.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of how quickly everyday travel can turn tragic and highlights the need for attentiveness and caution on the road. Community members are keeping the affected families in their thoughts as they recover and cope with the aftermath of this difficult event.
