An Ohio community is left in mourning after an elderly couple perished in an accident involving an Ohio State Highway Patrol cruiser in Athens County. John Horton, 82, and Le-Ann Horton, 72, residents of Albany, were killed when their vehicle collided with an OSHP cruiser, as reported by FOX28.
The crash occurred near the intersection of US-50 and Fisher Road after a trooper sought to catch up to another vehicle that had committed a traffic violation. The Hortons, in a Toyota Prius, were trying to turn onto Fisher Road when they tragically crossed paths with the oncoming cruiser. According to the WSAZ coverage, the couple was praised by neighbors as "outstanding and kind people," deeply involved with their local church. Christ Community Wesleyan Church, where the couple worshiped, lamented the loss, stating, "Their kindness and faith touched the lives of so many in our congregation. We will always miss LeAnn’s warm smile and John’s quick wit."
The trooper involved sustained non-life-threatening injuries and received treatment at Marietta Memorial Hospital. As detailed by FOX8, an investigation into the accident is currently ongoing with assistance from various local departments.
While questions remain unanswered, the community attempts to find solace despite the tragic circumstances. The impact of the Hortons' passing reverberates through the town, as they were known to contribute significantly to the lives of those around them. Their church shared their grief but also found comfort in their faith, believing the couple to now be "walking with Jesus." The sudden nature of the incident has left many shocked, as previously mentioned by WSAZ.
