According to police, the wrongful death of a Lancaster motorcyclist on Saturday was caused by an impaired driver.
A 63 year old Lancaster resident, James E. Lowe, Jr. died at Fairfield Medical Center of injuries sustained in the crash. Lowe’s 7 year old granddaughter, Haily N. Derbyshire, was a passenger on his motorcycle. Hailey was seriously injured. She was transported by medical helicopter to Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus where she is reported to be in critical condition.
Lancaster police stated that a 20 year old Rushville woman, Devin Downour, was under the influence of drugs or alcohol when she drove through a red light at the intersection of Ewing Street and E. Main Street. Downour struck the motorcycle being operated by Mr. Lowe, then struck a Chevrolet Cruze driven by Allie E. Wright. Ms. Wright and her passenger, Forrest Longstreth, sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene of the crash.
Officers at the scene of the crash reported that Ms. Downour exhibited signs of impairment at the scene. Downour was taken into custody and transported to the Fairfield County Jail.
Ms. Downour will face charges related to the wrongful death and impaired driving. Additional charges may be filed once the police investigation has been completed.
Leading causes of tragedies such as this crash include drunk driving, distracted driving and excessive speed. The Ohio Car Accident Wrongful Death and Personal Injury Attorneys at Clark, Perdue & List have represented countless victims of traffic crashes. Clark, Perdue & List can help victims of motor vehicle crashes and their families obtain justice.