ATHENS COUNTY, Ohio — A tragic collision on U.S. Route 50 near Fisher Road claimed the lives of two elderly individuals on Thursday afternoon, according to a news release from the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP). The incident, which occurred shortly after 2 p.m., involved a marked OSHP cruiser and a civilian vehicle. The victims have been identified as John G. Horton, 82, and LeAnn Horton, 72, both residents of Albany, Ohio.
Preliminary information from the OSHP indicates that a trooper observed a traffic violation on U.S. Route 50 and initiated a pursuit of the vehicle involved. At the same time, the Hortons were traveling westbound on U.S. 50 in a Toyota Prius and attempted to cross the eastbound lanes to turn onto Fisher Road. During this maneuver, the patrol cruiser collided with their vehicle.
The trooper involved in the crash was transported to Marietta Memorial Hospital, where they were treated for injuries described as non-life-threatening.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the precise circumstances surrounding this devastating incident. Authorities have not released additional details about the traffic violation or the specifics of the pursuit at this time.
This tragic event underscores the critical need for caution and awareness on the road, particularly during law enforcement activities. The community mourns the loss of John and LeAnn Horton, and our thoughts are with their family and loved ones during this difficult time. We also wish for a swift recovery for the trooper involved. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.