NEWS FEED

Ohio Valley Unites as Tragedies Strike

Written by Brice Hickey and Kameron Miller, Journalists

The Ohio Valley has been struck with tragedies recently as two local athletes have been involved in terrible accidents. 

Justin Cummings, a 15 year old student from Indian Creek High School, was involved in a car accident on January 15.  “He was fully ejected from the car and suffered lower body paralysis as a result of the accident,” reports indicate.  Schools all over the Valley have come together and have been organizing events and fundraisers to assist the Cummings family with the medical costs.  Brooke High School has held raffles at home basketball games to benefit Justin.  Also, the weekly “Hat Day” money was donated to him as well.  

Only 16 days after Justin’s accident, on January 31, Lee West, a Steubenville High School freshman, was tragically killed in a fire at his home on Virginia Avenue in Steubenville.  Similar to the case of Justin Cummings, the Valley really came together to help West’s family.  The Brooke High basketball team accepted donations during Friday’s game against Big Red, as did the swim team. 

Boys basketball coach Dave Reitter appointed three of his players to head a campaign to raise money for Lee’s family.  Eric Johnson, Nick Breen, and Brian Gialluco were all chosen to help out.  

“I didn’t personally know Lee, but I am good friends with his cousin, Periogn.  I think it’s a really good thing.  It shows that theOhioValleycan come together when things like this happen.  It’s nice to know everyone has your back,” stated Johnson. 

The noticeable unity among the different people of theOhioValleyis evident as fundraisers and other beneficial events have taken place to assist the families of these two young men.  Thoughts and prayers have been plentiful during this time of mourning and sorrow, but hope for the future is just as strong.