One year ago, a tragic event unfolded on Interstate 70 in Licking County, claiming the lives of six individuals, three of whom were students of Tuscarawas Valley High School. The community still reels from the impact, with multiple events held in memory of the victims.
On November 14, 2023, a charter bus transporting the high school band to a performance was struck from behind, setting off a chain reaction that ultimately led to the deaths of John Mosley, 18, Jeffrey Worrell, 18, and Katelyn Owens, 15, along with three adults, WKYC reports. The tractor-trailer responsible for the crash was driven by Jacob McDonald, 60, of Zanesville, who now faces 26 charges, including six counts of aggravated vehicular homicide, according to FOX8.
In remembrance, the school district held the Stand with the Band Memorial Walk and Run on November 17, symbolizing unity and paying tribute to each of the lives lost, as covered by News 5 Cleveland. The event lasted six hours and reflected upon the six individuals whose memories continue to resonate with the community.
Superintendent Derek Veransky expressed the profound gratitude of the school district for the overwhelming support received in the wake of the tragedy. "Your love, kindness, and unwavering support of our district will never be forgotten," Veransky told FOX8. In the effort to create a lasting legacy, more than $1 million in donations has been garnered for the Trojan Foundation, providing immediate assistance to the affected families and establishing scholarships to honor the victims.
