Local briefs

Fundraiser established for local man seriously injured in pedestrian crash

HAMMONDSVILLE — A local man is facing multiple surgeries and months of recovery after being struck by a vehicle Saturday night along state Route 213.

Preston Collins suffered life-threatening injuries in the Oct. 17 crash, which occurred shortly before 8:45 p.m. near Brown's Hobby Shop.

Initial emergency dispatch reports indicated a vehicle had struck a deer, but the information was subsequently updated to reflect a pedestrian-involved crash.

Collins suffered extensive injuries to his arms and legs and was transported by medical helicopter to a Pittsburgh hospital. The driver of the vehicle also received medical treatment following the crash.

His wife, Faith Martin, has established a GoFundMe campaign to help the family meet household expenses while Collins recovers.

According to the fundraiser, Collins faces seven additional surgeries and is expected to be unable to work for several months. Martin said her husband is the family's sole source of income and will require assistance at home during his recovery.

The campaign seeks $6,500 to help cover bills, living expenses and the needs of the couple's children.

Donations can be made through the family's GoFundMe campaign.

Additional details about the circumstances of the crash have not been released.

Medical examiner to identify body found after house fire

HANCOCK COUNTY — A body recovered from a Hancock County residence following a fire Monday morning have been sent to Charleston for identification.

Emergency personnel were dispatched shortly after 7 a.m. to 5684 Washington School Road, where a body was discovered after firefighters brought the blaze under control, according to the Hancock County Sheriff's Office.

The West Virginia Medical Examiner's Office will work to establish the identity of the deceased.

Authorities have not released additional information about the victim or the circumstances surrounding the fire.

Steubenville demonstrators emphasize voter turnout during rally

STEUBENVILLE — With the November general election approaching, Ohio Valley residents took to the streets of Steubenville to encourage voter participation during a local demonstration connected to the nationwide "No Kings" movement.

Demonstrators encouraged eligible voters to consult their county boards of elections for information about early voting hours, locations and procedures.

Damaged drainage line prompts $38,000 repair authorization

FOLLANSBEE — What initially appeared to be a routine pipe repair along Shannon Boulevard has developed into a more extensive infrastructure project, with Follansbee officials preparing to replace an entire damaged line.

The trouble dates to August, when heavy rainfall contributed to drainage problems and minor flooding reported by nearby homeowners.

According to council, an initial inspection by city crews revealed a collapsed pipe. Additional investigation, however, showed that replacing a small section would not adequately address the damage.

A sinkhole subsequently became visible along the roadway, prompting concerns about the condition of the underground infrastructure.

City Council discussed the issue during a special meeting. Council also authorized spending up to $38,000 for the replacement project.

Two parents receive prison terms in child neglect case

WELLSBURG — A February fire at a Follansbee residence led to the discovery of living conditions that have resulted in prison sentences for two parents.

Kyron Coleman and Natasha Thomas each received sentences of four to 40 years after pleading guilty to four counts of child neglect, according to Brooke County Prosecutor Kim Cowden.

Coleman was sentenced Oct. 5, followed by Thomas on Monday, Oct. 19.

The charges stemmed from a Feb. 26 fire at a home on Virginia Avenue. Follansbee police responding to the scene discovered a 5-year-old child living in conditions prosecutors described as deplorable.

The investigation resulted in charges against both parents.

Cowden said protecting the child was the primary concern of her office throughout the case. She encouraged residents who suspect children are being neglected or endangered to report their concerns to Child Protective Services, local police or the prosecutor's office.

Free workshop to help residents prepare for emergencies

WELLSBURG — Ohio Valley residents can learn how to safeguard their families, finances and essential belongings when disaster strikes during a free preparedness programs scheduled this week.

The session, planned for Friday in Wellsburg, is part of a collaborative effort involving the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley, Tygart Valley United Way and United Way of Central West Virginia.

Organizers will offer guidance on assembling emergency supply kits, securing financial information and taking necessary steps following a disaster.

The program is scheduled from noon to 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Brooke County Public Library, 945 Main St.

Those attending will receive free disaster preparedness bags and light refreshments. Participants also will have an opportunity to win raffle prizes, including a solar power station.

There is no charge to attend.