Pike County community mourns mother and two children killed on SR 32

The Pike County community is mourning the loss of a mother and two children following a tragic crash involving a semi-truck. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Hannah Howard was driving on Coal Dock Road with her three children when she failed to stop at a stop sign while attempting to cross State Route 32. Investigators say her vehicle pulled into the path of an oncoming empty logging trailer. Howard, her 9-year-old son, and 5-year-old daughter died at the scene. Her youngest child was airlifted to Nationwide Children’s Hospital and remains in critical condition. Troopers are reminding drivers to use caution around large vehicles, drive patiently, and to yield when necessary. Jake Schuldt, Lieutenant with the Ohio State Highway Patrol Portsmouth Post, told ABC 6 crashes are becoming more serious along state route 23 despite the long sight of visibility. “This truck was empty, but even empty and not loaded, there’s still a very large vehicle that’s moving a lot of weight,” Lt. Schuldt said. “It takes much longer to stop than a typical personal car.” The driver of the semi-truck attempted to stop and was not injured in the crash. For many in the local baseball community, the Howard family’s impact extends far beyond Monday’s tragedy. Friends describe the family as devoted parents who were deeply involved in their children’s activities. Hannah’s husband is at the side of their youngest child as he continues to fight for his life. Schuldt told ABC 6 Tuesday the child remains in critical condition. Brian Jarvis, a family friend and baseball coach who worked with the Howard family’s oldest child, said the family was committed to supporting their children. “You could tell their passion was: ‘Whatever my kids want to do, we’re fully committed,” Jarvis said. Jarvis described the family as close-knit, loving, and dedicated. “They were there every single week. Very dedicated, very committed, just always chipper. Mom and Dad were awesome with the kids so whenever you meet people like that, it’s really easy to reciprocate that love and affection to them,” said Jarvis. Community members are sharing support for the Howard family as they process the accident. Click here to support the family’s GoFundMe. The Pike County community is also raising funds through shirts and merchandise sales. “In the last 24 hours, support is coming in through coaches group texts, phone calls, raffles, donations, and auctions. Word travels fast in a small town and it’s a very useful thing.”