Around 2:00 p.m. Saturday afternoon, a pickup truck driven by William Stanton, 47, collided with another vehicle in the 7400 block of Woodpoint Drive in Florence, Ohio. Stanton then went on to strike another vehicle, killing the driver. Stanton was driving while impaired, which was a major contributing factor to the multi-vehicle accident.
The driver and passenger of the first vehicle struck by Stanton received injuries that were not life-threatening. However, the driver of the second vehicle a firefighter with the Aurora Fire Department perished in the tragic automotive accident.
According to Florence police, Stanton was treated for minor injuries at the scene and was then promptly arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), criminal mischief and second-degree manslaughter.
The firefighters death is a tragic loss for the Aurora Fire Department, said Fire Chief Jeff Lane. Lane also said the fallen firefighter, who was off-duty at the time of the crash, was a dedicated employee who was loved by everyone at the fire department.
In honor of the firefighter who lost his life, flags at the Aurora Fire Department have been lowered to half-mass.
In the wake of the tragic loss, its likely the victims family will file a DUI lawsuit. Although nothing can replace their loved one, the family of the fallen firefighter is entitled to compensation for their emotional pain and suffering.
Their DUI lawsuit will likely include compensatory as well as punitive damages, meaning the family may choose to sue Stanton personally as a way to punish him for taking the life of their family member.
In 2011, 1,445 people were killed on Ohio’s roadways as a result of drug or alcohol impaired drivers, and another 129,314 were injured. If you or someone you love has been a part of this tragic statistic, contact the skilled personal injury lawyers in Cincinnati at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy today. We will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.