ATHENS COUNTY, Ohio — Two elderly individuals tragically lost their lives on Thursday afternoon in a collision involving a marked Ohio State Highway Patrol cruiser, according to a news release from the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP). The incident occurred shortly after 2 p.m. on U.S. Route 50 near Fisher Road. The victims have been identified as John G. Horton, 82, and LeAnn Horton, 72, both residents of Albany, Ohio.
Preliminary details from the OSHP indicate that a trooper observed a traffic violation on U.S. 50 and attempted to pursue the vehicle involved. During this pursuit, the Horton couple was traveling westbound on U.S. 50 and attempted to cross the eastbound lanes of traffic to turn onto Fisher Road. At that moment, the patrol cruiser collided with their vehicle, a Toyota Prius.
The trooper involved in the crash was transported to Marietta Memorial Hospital with injuries that are described as non-life-threatening.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol has launched an investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to this tragic collision.
This heartbreaking event serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and caution, especially in situations involving law enforcement pursuits. Our thoughts are with the families of John and LeAnn Horton during this incredibly difficult time, as well as with the trooper recovering from the incident. More information will be provided as the investigation continues.
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