LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ohio — A heartbreaking crash on State Route 7 in Union Township has claimed the lives of two people, including a 6-year-old boy, and left two other children critically injured, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The fatal collision occurred shortly after 2 p.m. on Friday. Troopers say Heather D. Reger, 47, of Proctorville, was driving an SUV when she veered off the right edge of the roadway and struck a guardrail. After continuing along the guardrail, the vehicle abruptly swerved into oncoming traffic and was struck head-on by a vehicle driven by James A. Riffe, 40, also of Proctorville.
Inside Reger’s SUV were three children, none of whom were wearing seatbelts, according to authorities. Bryston Adkins, age 6, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene along with Reger.
The two surviving children were transported by Lawrence County emergency services to Cabell Huntington Hospital, where they are currently listed in critical condition.
In the wake of the tragedy, the community has come together to support the grieving family. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral expenses for young Bryston and to help the family during this incredibly difficult time.
🔗 Help Fund Bryston’s Final Goodbye
This devastating incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of vehicle safety and seatbelt use for all passengers, especially children.
Our hearts go out to the family, friends, and all those affected by this unimaginable loss. The Lawrence County community stands united in grief and support.
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