Honoring Those Who Passed Too Soon

The Tusky Valley community is suffering immense grief after a horrific accident killed six people.

Traveling to Columbus so that band members could perform at the Ohio School Boards Association Conference, three students from Tuscarawas Valley High School in a charter bus were killed in the crash on Interstate 70 in Licking County on Tuesday, as were three adult chaperones affiliated with the school. 15 students were hospitalized.

Investigators believe a tractor-trailer struck a vehicle, causing a chain reaction accident involving the bus carrying more than 50 people, an SUV carrying chaperones, and other vehicles. The crash and resulting fire were so horrendous that nearly two dozen fire crews and numerous police agencies responded.

State Senator Al Landis came upon the traffic back-up as a result of the accident when he was driving to Columbus. When Senator Landis realized his constituents were involved in the accident, he immediately went to Etna High Point Church, which had been set up as a reunification site for the survivors.

Senator Landis issued this statement:

"My heart is grieving with the students, families, staff and administrators of the Tusky Valley community after the tragic accident that claimed six lives far too soon. This community is hurting tremendously today, but I know they are strong and will bond together now more than ever to get through this difficult time. I am so thankful for all the first responders and the many people who provided immediate resources in both Licking and Tuscarawas Counties. Please continue to pray for Tusky Valley."

On the floor of the Senate on Wednesday, Landis expressed his condolences for the victims and their loved ones, as well as his support for the Tusky Valley community. He then called for a moment of silence before the legislative session commenced.

You can watch Landis deliver his remarks here.

Senator Al Landis represents the 31st District in the Ohio Senate, which includes all of Tuscarawas, Wayne, and Muskingum Counties and parts of Stark and Guernsey Counties.