Fair showcases crash aftermath to promote safe driving

One year after beloved Cincinnati-area DJ Chris VanZant was tragically killed by a drunk driver, the remnants of that fateful night are now being exhibited at the Butler County Fair. Among the usual fair attractions like corn dogs, ice cream, and games, attendees are confronted with a solemn scene: two severely damaged cars, frozen in time from the fatal collision. Zach Flannery of Riley Township expressed his dismay upon witnessing the exhibit, commenting, "That's awful news. Terrible. Frightening." VanZant, also known by his DJ name Sickness, had just completed a performance at the Village Tavern in Montgomery and was on his way home to Indiana when Leodegario Cruz-Ortiz veered into oncoming traffic on Route 127 in Butler County, resulting in the crash. Cruz-Ortiz, who had a blood alcohol level over double the legal limit, was speeding 30 miles above the prescribed limit, was in the country illegally, had no valid driver's license, and caused the collision. Visitors like Kerry Miller from Hamilton utilized the exhibit as a moment to teach her three children about the consequences of impaired driving. Reflecting on the impact of the exhibit, her 13-year-old son Ryder Miller noted, "I mean, somebody's life was taken," while her 8-year-old simply stated, "It's just sad." This unexpected but significant display at the fair serves as a poignant lesson, aimed at resonating with all who view it, as VanZant's wife Brooke hopes. Cruz-Ortiz admitted guilt to charges of operating a vehicle under the influence, speeding, and aggravated vehicular homicide and is currently serving a 15-year prison term.