Ohio 13, Out Of Mansfield, Claims Another Life

                            Going over all The Highway Films that were produced in the years of my dad's service to The Ohio Highway Patrol.  Ohio 13 was mentioned in "Highways Of Agony".   My heart feels a little heavy tonight as I learned that my friend Connie , who just passed away from cancer two months or so back, her son (29) was killed in an auto accident two days ago on Ohio 13.  "Unbelievable " So much sadness for his family.  It really brings home the message of wearing seat belts and how important they are.  He wasn't wearing his belt and was thrown as his minivan rolled landing on its top.  It was a violent crash as he went left of center and struck another vehicle head on.
                             Just last week an elderly couple was killed when a tractor-trailer ran over their Ford Escape stopped at a red light.  This happened at the same light I always go through when traveling up-north to Willard, Ohio.  US 23 and 229.  The driver of the semi stated that his brakes failed.  Something my dad said to me is a common excuse for some truckers.  To confuse it even more, this man had a person riding shot-gun with him.  I side with my dad in this, I mean if the semi had bad brakes why in the world would he be driving it in the first place.  Regardless of what he claims, it is his fault for not stopping at the intersection when the light was red.  It really unnerves me to think about it.  I had stopped at that light countless of times.  Now this with Connie's son.  It really pushes safety in my mind as I knew him when he was just a little boy and having my son soon to be among the millions of drivers.  I guess the point is clear, always wear your seat belt and be a defensive driver.  Although I doubt any of that would have helped the couple in the Ford Escape but when you can, its just common sense to do so.  My prayers are with Connie's Mom as she will have to go through yet another funeral of a family member.  I know IM Schizz and his family had gone through that heart break too just a year ago when they lost their lovely parents.  I love you all and I am always praying for all of you as well!  May God always strengthen your faith with His great love and mercy!