Highway patrol concerned about number of fatal Trumbull crashes

SOUTHINGTON — In response to the significant number of traffic fatalities so far this year in Trumbull County, the Southington post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is refocusing its attention on the top crash-causing violations.

Seventeen people have died in 15 crashes so far this year, which is high compared to the 21 deaths recorded in all of 2011, said Lt. Brian Holt, commander of the Southington post.

Of the 17 deaths, nine were alcohol related and eight were attributed to unsafe speed, Holt said. Two of the people who died were pedestrians.

“Only one was wearing a safety belt,” Holt said of the 15 occupants of a motor vehicle who died this year.

“Troopers urge drivers to maintain a safe speed and to never get behind the wheel impaired,” Holt said.

The public is encouraged to dial #677 on a cellphone to reach the nearest Ohio State Highway Patrol to report impaired drivers or drug activity.