EARLY MORNING ELYRIA HOUSE FIRE

BREAKING NEWS

PHOTO GALLERY

Elyria – Residents of a California Ave home woke up just after 3am to find the back of their home on fire.

Chief Joseph Pronesti of the Elyria Fire Department said they received the first call from the homeowner saying that their back deck was on fire. “The first call came at 3:15am and then she called back while we were responding saying that the fire made it into the home. Our guys could see the glow from the fire and the smoke column from the Abbewood area.”

Pronesti said that when Firefighters arrived on scene at 3:23am they found the entire back of the home involved in fire. “The fire had gotten into the second floor and into the attic so we had to go defensive and knock it down.”

The fire and heat were so intense at the height of the blaze that it melted the neighbors siding and shutters, but there was no smoke or fire damage to the neighbors home.

The homeowners were able to escape the home without any injuries. The American Red Cross will be providing them shelter and necessities throughout the next couple of days.

Lorain and Avon Fire Departments filled in the Elyria station during the blaze.

Pronesti said the cause of the fire is under investigation.

PHOTO GALLERY

STRIKE UP THE BAND...

…I MEAN ORCHESTRA!

Elyria – Thousands gathered in downtown Elyria Saturday night to enjoy the sounds of the Cleveland Pops Orchestra who was making their fifth appearance at Ely Square.

Check back later today for the complete story and PHOTO GALLERY

CHIEF READY TO RETURN TO HIS SHIFT

Elyria – “I’m tired of fighting politics; I’d rather fight fires with my Brother Firefighters where I can truly make a difference.” Elyria Interim Fire Chief Joseph Pronesti.

In a conversation with Chief Pronesti today he confirmed that he has sent a letter to Mayor Grace and all of City Council that as of November 15th he wants to go back to working on shift with the Firefighters.

When Pronesti agreed to take on the roll as Interim Chief it was understood that per the Civil Service Rules that he could only hold that position for 6 months. Pronesti said that he really misses working on shift with the other Firefighters and that he feels his work there will be more productive.

Tom Kelley, Director of Lorain County Emergency Management Agency and Home Land Security, said that whoever fills the position will continue the work that Pronesti has done in working with all of the Fire Departments throughout the county. “It was never more evident then during the General Industry fire – Full Time, Part Time or Volunteer, it didn’t matter – everyone worked together and that is the way it is suppose to be. I hope that if he does choose not to remain as Chief, that the person who takes that position continues that, and continue in that direction. We all need to support each other when something happens like that on a large scale.”

Pronesti was widely praised by local Fire Chiefs and others for how he ran the operations at the General Industries fire. Kelley said that 24 departments from six counties were utilized during that fire. GENERAL INDUSTRY FIRE PHOTO GALLERY

Pronesti will speak Tuesday night at City Council to make everything official.

AS HURRICANE APPROACHES THE GULF

LOCAL RED CROSS SPRINGS TO ACTION

As Hurricane Gustav makes its way to the Gulf Coast - The American Red Cross begins to prepare for the worst. The Lorain County Chapter has deployed two volunteers the region and a number of others are on stand by.

Yvette Ortiz and Patricia Yaccabucci will board a plane tomorrow morning headed for Baton Rouge, Louisiana. They have committed to a two-week term of service and have not yet been given their specific assignments.

Both Yvette and Pat began their volunteerism with the Red Cross during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Since then they have both been very active in local disaster relief here in Lorain County.

Photo Courtesy: Lorain County Red Cross

POLICE SEARCH FOR MORE VICTIMS

Amherst – A 22 year old Parma Heights man has been arrested by Amherst Police for Gross Sexual Imposition and now the Police are looking for possibly more victims.

During the month of April 2008, the Amherst Police Department received two separate complaints from female victims (one adult and one seventeen year old juvenile) who reported inappropriate activity while attending the Amherst Superior Medical Sleep Lab located at 1959 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst.

As a result of those investigations, information was presented to the Lorain County Grand Jury. On 08-20-08, Mina N Roufail (age 22) of Parma Heights was indicted on 2-counts of Gross Sexual Imposition and 2-counts of Sexual Imposition.

Roufail had been an employee of the company for approximately one year and is currently no longer employed there. Police say that management of the business was fully cooperative with the investigation and have taken proactive steps to ensure similar incidents do not occur.

The names of the victims or other details of this investigation are not being released due to the ongoing investigation.

The Amherst Police Department Detective Bureau is asking that anyone with any additional information or similar experiences between mid 2007 and early 2008 while attending the Amherst Superior Medical Sleep Lab to contact them at 440-988-4422.

MAN SWERVES TO AVOID CAR

GOES OFF ROAD & STRIKES A HOUSE

LaGrange – A LaGrange Township toddler was left unharmed Tuesday afternoon after a Ford F 150 struck the side of his Indian Hollow Road home – interrupting his cartoons.

Trooper Chris Aussie of the Ohio State Highway Patrol said that 21 year old Ted Fowler of LaGrange was traveling southbound on Indian Hollow when he took his eyes off the road for only a moment – when he looked up he saw that a car had stopped ahead of him for a stopped school bus. “When he saw that stopped car he swerved to the right to avoid a collision and instead he ended up veering off the right side of the road and striking a house at 17572 Indian Hollow.”

LaGrange Township Fire & Rescue responded to the scene but Fowler refused any treatment or transport. Firefighters did repair some damage to secure the side by side duplex so that the tenants would not have to be displaced.

Fowler was cited at the scene for Failure to Control.

PHOTO GALLERY

CAR GOES OFF OF ROUTE TWO

THEN PLOWS THROUGH THE TREES

Amherst Township – A crash on Route 2 Tuesday afternoon sent one man to the hospital with minor injuries.

The crash occurred while the man was traveling west on Route 2 around 3PM. The man drove off the right side of the road and buried his car in the trees and weeds. Good Samaritans who were driving through the area extinguished a small fire before Firefighters and Paramedics arrived.

The driver was taken to Community Health Partners Emergency Room with minor injuries.

The crash remains under investigation by the State Patrol – more details will be posted shortly.

PHOTO GALLERY

BUS DRIVER ROLLS OVER OWN FOOT

Amherst – A Lorain County Transit bus driver was injured Monday afternoon when her own bus rolled over her foot.

Amherst Firefighters and Paramedics from LifeCare Ambulance responded to the west drive of Golden Acres on North Ridge Road in Amherst and treated the driver at the scene. The incident, which is still under investigation by the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department, caused injury to the driver’s foot and other minor injuries from being struck by the door.

As Firefighters and Paramedics began to lift the driver into the ambulance on the cot she expressed some concerns and said she was nervous – The Amherst Fire Chief comforted her by saying “With these six guys, you are as safe as being in your mothers arms” – With that reassurance she relaxed and was loaded into the ambulance and transported to Amherst Emergency Room for further treatment.

PHOTO GALLERY

OFFICER ARRESTED - PLEAD & FINED

Elyria – Elyria Police Officers had to notify one of their own on Monday that he was being placed under arrest and charged with Disorderly Conduct – Condition Dangerous Self / Others and Criminal Trespass – Restricted Area.

Elyria Police Officer Eric Vankerhove was officially charged for following a 17-year-old female into a woman’s restroom at the Marc’s Store on Midway Blvd in Elyria 2 months ago and kissing her.

According to a Police report, the 17 year old female advised Officers that Vankerhove, while working an off duty job at the Marc’s store on June 13th, followed her into the women’s restroom and kissed her. The incident was also witnessed by the store manager.

Although a court date of September 17th was set for Vankerhove he appeared in court today and plead no contest to the charges.

Judge Lisa Locke Graves found Vankerhove Guilty on both charges.

Vankerhove was fined $100.00 on each count and ordered to pay court costs of $89.00. Judge Locke Graves suspended $50.00 of each count – condition that Vankerhove have no contact with the Juvenile female noted in police report.

A GOLD CARD MEMBER REQUEST

Let me begin this piece by saying that I do not want everyone sending in photos of stray cats and dogs looking for homes. A high level Gold Card Member of TMC NEWS sent in the request to post this story and photo in hopes to find a home for this mother and kitten. He found these cats abandoned in the area of Elyria High School over this past weekend – scared and hungry.

His family is unable to keep the cat’s long term so they are looking for a permanent, loving home for the mother cat and her kitten. The family is requesting that the mother and kitten stay together as the kitten has not yet been weaned and is still very attached to her mother.

If anyone is interested in taking the mother and her kitten in, please contact TMC NEWS @ tmcnews1@aol.com – We will forward all interested parties to the family that is currently caring for the cats.

ROSENBAUM CONDITION UPGRADED

UPDATE: According to a MetroHealth Medical Center Spokesperson, Jonathan Rosenbaum’s condition has been upgraded today from Serious to Fair.

Authorities have made no arrests in connection with the shooting that took place Saturday afternoon at the Sportsmen Gun & Reel Club on Middle Ridge Road in Amherst Township.

Authorities say that Rosenbaum was shooting Skeet with his son and a friend when the incident occurred around noon. Rosenbaum’s son, Aaron, had just stepped off the block from shooting and his dad stepped up. As Aaron was stepping off he said he had a shell jammed, as he tried to get it dislodged the gun – a 12-gauge with #9 Shot Shells – went off striking his father, who was only a few feet away, in the back.

Aaron was using his father’s gun at the time because his was being repaired; authorities say that might have played a part in the incident because Aaron was unfamiliar with his father’s gun.

Once the investigation by the Sheriff’s Department is completed they will turn it over to the Lorain County Prosecutors Office to determine if any charges will be filed.

MAN SHOT DURING ARGUMENT

Elyria – A man was shot in the leg Sunday night – initially the victim said he was shot during a robbery attempt while walking along Middle Ave. The victim later changed that story.

Staff from Elyria Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Room first contacted police informing them that they were treating a gunshot victim. Police were told that the victim, Ralph A. Russo, had been shot near Gas USA and a friend had driven him to the Emergency Room.

Police sent Officers to both the ER and to Gas USA to investigate.

Security Officers at EMH advised Police that they observed a Red Mustang pull into the ER and two male’s got out – one with a gunshot to his leg (Russo) and the other (a juvenile) holding his jaw and bleeding from the mouth. The two men went into the triage area and the man in the Mustang left the area. The two men told the Nurse in Triage that they had been robbed at gunpoint.

Officers were unable to immediately interview the Russo because he was in X-ray – so they got the following story from his friend with the jaw injury.

The man told Police that they had just left Gas USA after purchasing cigarettes – while walking south on Middle Ave, several blocks away from the gas station, two black males approached them asked if they had any money. The victim said they advised the men that they had no money, at which time the one man was punched in the mouth. Then Russo was told to turn over his wallet to the men – when he said no they heard “a loud bang” similar to a gunshot. After the shot the alleged perpetrators fled the scene in an unknown direction. The young victim described the two men as being in their late teens to early twenties, both black wearing all black. One was said to be wearing baseball cap. The only description he gave about the gun was that it was black.

Officers were able to interview Russo a short time later and observed the gunshot wound – entry wound above the right knee on the outside of his mid thigh and an exit wound located on the inside of his right thigh slightly above his right knee. Once the bullet exited his right leg it made its way into his inside left calf below his left knee and exited out of his left calf.

Police received a slightly different story while interviewing Russo. Russo said that the men had left Gas USA after purchasing beer and they were approached by one black male while walking on Middle Ave. Russo described the man as being in his mid twenties, wearing a South Pole T-Shirt with gold lettering, with a pair of dark blue jeans shorts. Russo also told Police that the man had dread locks that were shoulder length and a blue bandana covering his mouth and nose. Russo said that when his friend said he had no money the man punched him in the nose – then when the man couldn’t get Russo’s wallet from his back pocket he pulled out a black semi-automatic handgun that was similar to a Glock.

Russo said once the gun was pulled out he was shot in the thigh area and the man then took off running. He said he and his friend then went to his friend’s house on 16th Street where he later decided to go to the hospital for treatment.

Officers continued to interview the two “victims” separately and like a house built out of balsa wood in a hurricane, their stories quickly disintegrated.

After all of the BS the Officers had to work through, here is what really happened.

Russo, who lives in Oberlin, was visiting with his friend at his home on 16th Street right off of Middle Ave. Russo asked his friend to give him a ride home to Oberlin – his friend refused stating that gas prices were too high right now. Russo, not happy with his friend’s response, punched him in the jaw. His friend, not happy with being punched in the jaw, grabbed his 9mm, pulled the slide back to chamber a round that was sitting in the magazine. After chambering the round the man shot Russo.

Elyria Police Detectives continue to investigate the incident.

PHOTO GALLERY

HOLIDAY MESSAGE FROM PATROL

COLUMBUS – Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers have a clear message for people who think they can get away with drunk driving this holiday weekend: If you are over the limit then you will be under arrest.

Since last Friday, state troopers and thousands of law enforcement officers in communities throughout Ohio have joined forces for a combined impaired driving enforcement wave which is part of the national Over the Limit. Under Arrest. program that runs through Labor Day.

In the first 10 days of this effort alone, state troopers have recorded 882 OVI arrests on Ohio roads.

“Time after time in public opinion surveys, motorists rank being hit by a drunk driver as one of their top fears about driving,” Colonel Richard Collins, Patrol superintendent, said. “One important way state troopers and our law enforcement colleagues around Ohio are working to make Ohio roads safe to travel is by aggressively searching for, and removing, impaired drivers from the roadways before they can cause a tragedy to someone in your family, or someone you know.”

Last year’s Labor Day holiday yielded the highest number of traffic fatalities in Ohio of any of the major, traditional holiday travel periods for the year. Not only did 24 people perish in Ohio traffic crashes last Labor Day weekend, but 10 of those deaths were alcohol-related.

Collins points to last year’s grim totals as to why officers are taking this Labor Day holiday so seriously.

“State troopers universally take the crime of drunk driving seriously. And that is what drunk driving is – a crime,” Collins said. “Drunk driving is a crime that puts innocent people in danger, and all too frequently results in tragic consequences. That’s what makes this issue so critically important – we are out there to protect the innocent from the criminals.”

911 TAPES RELEASED FROM SHOOTING

Lorain County 9-1-1 released a disc today containing two calls to their office Saturday afternoon reporting the shooting of former Lorain County Prosecutor Jonathan Rosenbaum.

In the first call a female calmly reports that a man had been shot at the Sportsmen Gun & Reel Club on Middle Ridge Road. During the call the 9-1-1 Operator asks if the shooting was on purpose and the caller stated no.

Caller: “A boy just shot his dad on the skeet field”
9-1-1: “Did he shoot him intentionally?”
Caller: “No, they were shooting skeet.”

During that call another Operator received a call from Rosenbaum’s son.

9-1-1: "9-1-1, do you need Police, Fire or Ambulance"
Son: "I need an ambulance; I just shot my father in the back. I’m very sorry."

For the next couple minutes the 9-1-1 Operator then attempts to get location and medical information from Rosenbaum’s son. Rosenbaum’s son, very upset, keeps saying that he is sorry for what happened. “He’s not very conscious, he’s fading fast. I just killed my father.”

Then at 3 minutes into the phone call with Rosenbaum’s son he says to his father, “I was just angry.” The following conversation took place between the father and son,

Jonathan Rosenbaum: “You fucking shot me on purpose”
Son: “No, I did not, I’m sorry”
Jonathan Rosenbaum: “You liar”
Son: “I did not shoot you on purpose”

The son then told 9-1-1 how he believed the shooting happened. “The shell was jammed in the gun, I was just trying to get it out and it just went off.”

Four minutes into the call Rosenbaum tells his son to stop talking to the 9-1-1 Operator: “He said you better hurry; he does not want me talking to you”

9-1-1: “This is not the police; I am trying to give you medical advice”

Moments later Paramedics from LifeCare Ambulance arrived on scene and the call was completed.

At one point during the call Rosenbaum’s son was heard saying; “Oh my God, I am never shooting again.”

WARNING: The contents of the 9-1-1 call could be disturbing.

BRIDES GONE WILD

TWO GO TO JAIL – THREE TO THE HOSPITAL

Elyria – A disturbance late Saturday night at Holly Hall is something you would normally see on a bad episode of “Brides Gone Wild” – but as the disturbance poured into the streets many Elyrian’s were able to get a first hand look.

Witnesses say that a wedding reception that was being held inside of Holly Hall turned ugly when guests began fighting. One witness who didn’t want to give her name was sitting on a patio located next to the hall – “They were first fighting outside here and it seemed like just more and more people started coming outside from the party and they would get involved too. It was just crazy how it went from bad to worse in a matter of moments. Then as Police started showing up they moved the fight back inside of the hall.”

When Police Officers arrived they began calling for additional units as the crowd swelled.

Paramedics were called to the scene originally after a man inside the hall through a chair into the crowd and hit someone. As Paramedics and Firefighters arrived to treat that victim another guest began having chest pains in the parking lot. More ambulances were called as other guests began complaining of feeling faint and difficulty breathing.

Police, with the help of Deputies from the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department, quickly got the crowd under control and cleared the area. In the end only two people were arrested, one for the fight itself and another who Police discovered had outstanding warrants.

We were not able to confirm if the Bride had a chance to throw her bouquet before the fight broke out.

Holly Hall is located on Holly Lane just off of West Ave.

To see more photos from the scene: CLICK HERE

ROSENBAUM'S CONDITION UPGRADED

UPDATE: According to a Nursing Supervisor at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland, former Lorain County Prosecutor Jonathan Rosenbaum’s condition has been upgraded from Critical to Serious today.

TRYING TO GET SUBWAY DOUGH

Elyria – Using the old “I got a gun in my pocket” routine, a man walked into the Subway store on East Ave near Fuller late Saturday night in an attempt to rob the store.

The man was described as a black male in his late 40’s to early 50’s – beard – missing teeth (upper and lower) – wearing a striped shirt. When the man was unable to get the money he fled into the field behind the store.

Deputies from the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office along with Officers from the Elyria Police Department quickly set up a perimeter to allow Elyria K9 Handler Tom Baracskai and his partner Fokey search the wooded area for the suspect.

After a thorough search of the woods and the surrounding area Officers were unable to locate the man.

If anyone has information about the man you should contact the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department at 440-329-1212.

To see more photos from the scene: CLICK HERE

3 INJURED IN ROLL OVER CRASH

Elyria Township – Troopers say that three people were injured Saturday afternoon after a girl lost control of her car on Route 2 and it rolled over on the highway.

Trooper Lance Deshuk of the Ohio State Highway Patrol said that 19-year-old Jessica Hackney of Amherst was traveling east on Route 2, east of Middle Ridge, when she said her car began to jerk. “She said that she was in the right lane while traveling east when her car began to slide off the left side of the roadway and into the median where it over turned before it came to rest in the left lane of the westbound lane of Route 2.”

Elyria Township Firefighters responded and treated the three occupants of the car on the scene. With the assistance of Sheffield Township Fire Department, all three were transported to area hospitals – none appeared to have any life threatening injures.

Trooper Deshuk said that before he arrived someone in a truck that was in the area moved the car off the roadway. “I was able to speak with the people when I arrived, they said they moved the car out of the roadway in an attempt to prevent additional incidents.”

Although the crash remains under investigation, Troopers say it is likely that Hackney will be charged with Failure to Control.


To see more photos from the scene: CLICK HERE


Remember if you are driving and see an accident scene ahead, “SLOW DOWN AND MOVE OVER” – Allow Police, Fire, EMS and Tow Services to do their jobs without becoming a victim.

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FORMER PROSECUTOR SHOT

LISTED IN CRITICAL CONDITION

Amherst Township – Paramedics were called to the Sportsmen Gun & Reel Club on Middle Ridge Road in Amherst Township early Saturday afternoon for a report of a man shot.

Paramedics found the man, 54-year-old Jonathan Rosenbaum, with a single gunshot wound to his back. He was treated on the scene then transported to Amherst Hospital Emergency Room. A short time later Toledo LifeFlight flew Rosenbaum to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland.

The Sportsmen Gun & Reel Club is located at 44165 Middle Ridge Road in Amherst Township. The club sits on the south side of Middle Ridge and so far back it is not even visible from the roadway. The club is listed to be open on Saturdays from 9am to 5pm.

Rosenbaum is the former Assistant Lorain County Prosecutor.

A Nursing Supervisor at MetroHealth Medical Center confirms that Rosenbaum is listed in critical condition.

The Lorain County Sheriff’s Department is conducting an investigation into the shooting.

PHOTO GALLERY

FAMILY SHUTS DOWN WEBSITE

The family of Lorain Firefighter John Volak has asked that the website that was set up to keep friends and well wishers updated on Volak’s condition be shut down.

The family issued the following statement to TMCNEWS.NET:

“Because of all the news surrounding the accident; newspaper articles misquoting from the web site, John’s picture being used in a newscast about a Police officer getting a DUI, and insensitive people making uninformed remarks about the accident, the family asked that the web site be shut down.

The family has been overwhelmed with all the publicity that ordinarily would not have continued if John were not a firefighter. The family will continue to keep his brother and sister firefighters updated in a more controlled manner out of the public eye.”

The Volak family

Friends and anyone interested in helping the family are encouraged to stop by the Lorain Fire Department’s Central Station at 1350 Broadway Ave and contribute to a fund that is assisting the family. The money collected will help the family pay for expenses such as parking at the hospital. If you cannot make it to the fire station but would still like to help you can call and speak to a Lorain Firefighter at 440-201-2219.

TMC NEWS POLL

More than 100 College Presidents, including The Ohio State University President E. Gordon Gee, say that lowering the current legal drinking age from 21 to 18 would actually help combat alcohol abuse. They say that the current law encourages dangerous binge drinking on campuses.

Opponents say that lowering the age to 18 would cause a rise in fatal car crashes and brain damage to young people.

Laura Dean-Mooney, President of Mothers Against Drunk Drivers, issued a statement condemning the proposal of lowering the drinking age calling it "a misguided initiative that uses deliberately misleading information to confuse the public."

"As the mother of a daughter who is close to entering college, it is deeply disappointing to me that many of our educational leaders would support an initiative without doing their homework on the underlying research and science," Dean-Mooney said. "Parents should think twice before sending their teens to these colleges or any others that have waved the white flag on underage and binge drinking policies."

Some states have suggested that the law should be changed to allow those who are in the military to drink if they are 18 years or older.

We would like to know what you think – You can take part in our TMCNEWS.NET POLL and also leave your comments about the proposal.

MAN KILLED IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH

DEVELOPING
Lorain – A man riding a motorcycle through Lorain neighborhoods at a high rate of speed was killed when he collided with a truck that he was attempting to pass.

The crash occurred just after 5PM, Thursday evening near the intersection of East 36th Street and Seneca Ave.

Paramedics pronounced the man dead at the scene.

The Lorain Police Traffic Bureau is investigating the crash.
****

UPDATE:
Lorain Police have released the name of the man killed Thursday afternoon as 20-year-old Seth Polly. Police say that Polly was riding his 03’ Yamaha, non-street legal, dirt bike when he struck the side of a tow truck.

Polly suffered a skull fracture and other internal injuries that killed him almost instantly. Although Polly was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, officials believe that with the high rate of speed he was traveling a helmet would not have saved him. Drugs and alcohol are not believed to have played a factor in the crash.

CAUTION: DANGEROUS INTERSECTION

AND NEIGHBORS WANT SOMETHING DONE

PHOTO GALLERY

Lorain – The sounds of two cars crashing into each other is becoming all too familiar to Lorain residents living in the neighborhood of Tower Blvd & Ashland Ave.

Neighbors gathered at the intersection Thursday afternoon after a car that was traveling westbound on Tower struck another car that was northbound on Ashland crossing Tower.

Lorain Firefighters assisted in extricating one of the drivers due to a pinned door. Paramedics treated the drivers of each vehicle and transported both to Community Health Partners for evaluation. Neither appeared to have serious injuries.

David Johnson has lived near the intersection since the 1970’s and he said that he has counted as many as 25 crashes in the very spot where this crash occurred. “It’s the same situation almost every time, when people are crossing Tower there is a blind spot and they keep going and get hit. We have met with our council people and have requested many times to have a traffic light installed but we have been told that since there are two in close proximity that it would not be feasible. I think the numbers prove that a light is desperately needed, something is needed for this intersection.”

Another neighbor, Mary Ann, said she spoke with the elderly woman who was the driver-traveling north on Ashland. “She told me that she didn’t see the girl, she just didn’t see her. She said she looked, but just didn’t see her. It’s because of the blind spot there – I have lived here for a long time so I am familiar with it, but I am still extremely cautious when I am going through there. I just wish the city would do something. About a month ago a man from down the street was involved in a similar crash here and he passed away while at Metro. I just don’t know what it will take to get something done.”

Neighbors say that children are not allowed to play in their yards because crashes have sent cars into the yards – they fear what could happen.


To see more photos from the scene: CLICK HERE



To read the story from last months crash: CLICK HERE

WELL DONE COOKIE ANYONE?

Amherst – Amherst Firefighters were called to Amherst High School after receiving an alarm from the building.

The building had already been evacuated by the time the Fire Department had arrived; Firefighters quickly began a search of the building. During a search Firefighters found smoke coming from the north end of the school in the science room. Unable to immediately find the source of the smoke Amherst Fire requested mutual aid assistance from South Amherst and Elyria Township Fire Departments.

Firefighters took to the roof and began searching in the ceilings but both were clear.

Then the source of the smoke was discovered – according to Chief Wayne Northeim of the Amherst Fire Department, a cookie had been placed inside of a microwave and set to cook for 10 minutes. Perhaps a bit too long for a cookie.

CONGRESSWOMAN TUBBS JONES DIES

Cleveland – In a statement released just before 7PM Wednesday evening, the Cleveland Clinic said that United States Representative Stephanie Tubbs Jones condition, since suffering a brain aneurysm and hemorrhage, had deteriorated throughout the day. The Congresswoman was pronounced dead at 6:12PM.

The Cleveland Heights Police Department said that one of their Officers observed the Congresswoman around 9PM Tuesday night traveling east on Mayfield Road and that she was weaving. She then turned onto Lee Road and that is when the Officer attempted to pull her vehicle over. The Congresswoman first pulled over to the side of the road but then the Officer reports that the car started rolling across the road and into the oncoming traffic. The Officer blocked the southbound lanes of Lee Road and went to the Congresswoman and realized immediately that she was having a medical emergency. Paramedics were called to the scene by Police and the Congresswoman was taken to Huron Hospital in East Cleveland where she never regained consciousness.

A brain aneurysm, also called a cerebral or intracranial aneurysm, is an abnormal bulging outward of one of the arteries in the brain. It is estimated that up to one in 15 people in the United States will develop a brain aneurysm during their lifetime.

Brain aneurysms are often discovered when they rupture, causing bleeding into the brain or the space closely surrounding the brain called the subarachnoid space, causing a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Subarachnoid hemorrhage from a ruptured brain aneurysm can lead to a hemorrhagic stroke, brain damage and death.

The main goals of treatment once an aneurysm has ruptured are to stop the bleeding and potential permanent damage to the brain and to reduce the risk of recurrence. Unruptured brain aneurysms are sometimes treated to prevent rupture. http://brainaneurysm.com/

Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones was the first African-American woman elected to the United States House of Representatives from Ohio. Congresswoman Jones was a lifelong resident of the 11th District, which encompasses most of the East Side of Cleveland and parts of the West Side of Cleveland and includes parts of 22 suburbs.

The Congresswoman made a number of historic achievements in her distinguished career as a public servant. Prior to her election to the House, Congresswoman Tubbs Jones served as the first African-American and the first female Cuyahoga County, Ohio Prosecutor. She was the first African-American woman to sit on the Common Pleas bench in the State of Ohio and was a Municipal Court Judge in the City of Cleveland.

The Congresswoman was a graduate of Cleveland Public Schools. She received her undergraduate degree from Case Western Reserve University, graduating with a degree in Social Work from the Flora Mather College in 1971. She received her Juris Doctorate form Case Western Reserve University School of Law in 1974. Additionally, she has received honorary doctorates from David N. Myers University, Notre Dame College and Central State University.

The Congresswoman was married to Mervyn L. Jones, Sr., deceased (2003), for 27 years and is the proud mother of Mervyn Leroy Jones, II.

The statement by the Cleveland Clinic went onto say: "She dedicated her life in public service to helping others and will continue to do so through organ donations. Please keep her family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time."

FIRE DESTROYS PLAYGROUND SET

CAUSE RAMAINS UNDER INVESTIGATION

Sheffield Township – An afternoon fire behind Vincent Elementary on North Ridge Road, just east of Route 57, left a brand new playground set destroyed.

Mike Ortiz was on his way to get a pizza when his son yelled out – “the school is on fire” – Ortiz quickly turned around. “As soon as I looked over I saw two small girls running east from the playground area and then there were two boys who looked to be teenagers running in the opposite direction. To me it appeared that they were both carrying something but with as fast as they were going I couldn’t tell what it was.”

Chief Joe Bandagski of the Sheffield Township said when his Firefighters arrived the fire was fully involved and going up over the school building. “Our guys obviously saw the huge column of smoke coming from the area, and then when they got here the fire was going up the side of the school building. The heat and fire were so intense right there that several windows on the north of the building broke out.”

Sheffield Fire called for mutual aid due to the size of the fire and the proximity to the building. Firefighters from Sheffield Village, Elyria Township, Avon, Amherst and South Amherst and the Lorain County Command and Communications truck all responded to the scene. The Lorain County Red Cross was also on scene providing rehab for the Firefighters.

Firefighters searched the interior of the school to see of any fire had gotten inside of the building. Although the building was filled with smoke, no fire damage was spotted. Firefighters also inspected the roof and found no fire or damage.

The huge black column of smoke could be seen as far south as Wellington. Local Fire Departments received calls from people believing the fire was in their jurisdiction.

Chief Bandagski said that the fire is believed to have started as a mulch fire then spread to the playground equipment. The equipment was brand new and just installed over the last couple of months.

The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department.


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GAS LEAK SPARKS EVACUATION

Avon Lake – Crews working along Moore Road in Avon Lake Monday morning accidentally struck a gas line causing an evacuation.

Lieutenant Larry Grizzell of the Avon Lake Fire Department said that crews from Fabrizi Excavating and Paving were digging a sewage line along Moore Road between Walker and Pin Oak when they struck the gas line. “The line they struck was a 3” medium pressure line that feeds into Poly One. Gas was spewing at 600psi and we determined that it was best to evacuate several of the homes and businesses in the immediate area until the incident was resolved.”

Lt. Grizzell said some businesses were asked to take “shelter in place”. Grizzell said people were very cooperative in this request.

As a precaution Firefighters pulled 300’ of supply line and laid a hand line while the repairs were being made by Columbia Gas.

Avon Lake Police secured the area by blocking traffic north and south of the incident.

A specially certified welder had to be called in to cap off the line. “Once he arrived on scene he was able to do his job and get the line capped within 5 to 10 minutes.”

To see more photos from the scene: CLICK HERE

DRUNK DRIVING CRACKDOWN

COLUMBUS – Drunk driving is one of America’s deadliest crimes. But it’s not just a national problem. In 2007, 473 people died on Ohio’s roads in alcohol-related crashes. That’s why national, state and local leaders, along with law enforcement agencies from around the state, joined together to send a message that cannot be ignored: drunk driving will not be tolerated in Ohio.

Laura Dean-Mooney, National President of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD); Director Henry Guzmán, Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS); Colonel Richard H. Collins, Ohio State Highway Patrol; Debbie Coleman, assistant health commissioner, Columbus Public Health; Paula Brooks, Franklin County Commissioner; Bill Windsor, Vice President of Safety, Nationwide Insurance; safety advocates and victims of drunk driving gathered at Columbus Public Health to kick off one of the largest enforcement efforts in the state in coordination with the national Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest. crackdown on impaired driving, which runs through Labor Day weekend.

All the members of the Franklin County OVI Task Force attended as well as representatives from nine other OVI task forces from around the state. Mayors and leaders from every jurisdiction in Franklin County also attended to support the effort.

“Law enforcement universally takes the crime of drunk driving seriously. And that is what drunk driving is - a crime,” said Colonel Richard H. Collins. “Drunk driving is a crime that puts innocent people in danger, and all too frequently results in tragic consequences. If you drink and drive, you will be arrested."

During the enforcement period, law enforcement partners have more than 5,000 enforcement hours and 29 checkpoints planned around the state. If you drive drunk, you will be caught and arrested. A majority of the enforcement hours are paid for through federal grants from the Ohio Traffic Safety Office, a division of ODPS.

“We are serious about saving lives and so are our partners, from law enforcement to safety advocates,” said Director Guzmán. “Safety partners in Ohio have been working to stop impaired driving for several years, but this year, we’re coordinating our efforts and the message around the state and nation – drunk driving is simply not worth the risk.”

“Drunk driving is preventable and we know how to eliminate it - increased enforcement and ignition interlocks for all convicted drunk drivers,” said Laura Dean-Mooney. “Limited resources and time should be maximized for the greatest lifesaving impact, and sobriety checkpoints are one of the best tools we have to deter drunk driving.” Research has shown that highly publicized, highly visible and frequent sobriety checkpoints reduce alcohol-related crashes and fatalities by up to 24 percent.

The national Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest. impaired driving crackdown is a prevention program organized by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that focuses on combining high-visibility enforcement with heightened public awareness through advertising and publicity. This year’s effort is supported by $11 million in paid-national advertising to help put everyone on notice that if they are caught driving impaired, they will be arrested.

FIRE AT THE FOUNDRY

Elyria – Elyria Firefighters responded Sunday morning to the Elyria Foundry complex on Filbert Street and Gateway Blvd. after receiving a report of a possible structure fire.

When Firefighters arrived they found moderate smoke coming out of multiple points of the “melt shop’s dust collector.”

Plant personnel reported to Fire Officials that the contents of the collector included a mixture of magnesium, nickel, sand and dust.

Firefighters pulled attack lines to protect the exposure but due to not knowing the nature of the burning materials they did not attack the fire.

Officials from the Foundry estimated the damage to the structure at $40,000.00.

Firefighters from Avon and Lorain staffed Elyria’s downtown station to provide coverage for Elyria. The American Red Cross was on scene at the Foundry to provide rehab for the Firefighters.

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GOOD LUCK GAGE

A small surprise party was organized for Gage Hume of Wellington Saturday afternoon on Oberlin Road in Amherst. Hume has been a contributor and friend to TMCNEWS.NET for the last two years. Friends wanted to give Gage a special send off as he prepares to begin his Army basic training next week.

Justin Willis, who organized the party, said the afternoon party was meant to allow his friends to spend a few hours with Gage before he leaves for the military. “Gage is just such a great friend and this is away for us to all be together for a couple hours before he leaves, we all wish him well and pray that he will be safe.”

Hume said that his joining the Army was not an easy decision but it was one of the most important he has ever made in his life – “I’m not sure I will face a more important decision in my life and as difficult as it was it always leaning in favor of joining. To me it is a calling; it’s a duty that I have to do – to serve my Country. Nothing, right now, is more important then that and I’m proud to serve.”

To Gage, and all like him who are putting their lives on hold and in harms way to serve our Country, I say Be Safe, Be Well and most importantly, Thank You!

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HELPING ONE OF THEIR OWN

While most of us were out enjoying the nice weather today and relaxing for the upcoming work week – a group of Eaton Township Firefighters were spending this Sunday building a wheel chair ramp for one of their own.

Chief Phil Slack of the Eaton Township Fire Department said that Robert Jaeger, a Charter Member of the Fire Department, suffered a stroke a couple of weeks ago leaving him to get around in a wheel chair. Jaeger, in his 80’s, then began to struggle getting in and out of his Durkee Road home. “Our Firefighters got together and decided that they had to do something to help Bob. The idea of building a ramp for him came up and they ran with it.”

The Eaton Township Fire & Rescue Association donated the money for the lumber. Work began early Sunday morning and by 5PM it was time for Jaeger to give the ramp a test run. With Chief Slack assisting Jaeger emerged from his home and rolled down the ramp where he was met by the Firefighters / construction workers.

Jaeger said he was overwhelmed by the gift and wanted to thank all of the Firefighters. “All I can say is WOW. This is amazing and I hope each one of these people know how much I appreciate what they have done. Some of these guys didn’t even know me before today, yet they have been here all day working. Thank you, thank you!”

Jaeger joined the department when they opened the doors in 1944. “Back then we used brooms and buckets to put out fires. I am very proud of how far the department has come over the years and I am also very proud of their Chief, I have broken in quite a few and they have a great one right now.”

Jaeger also served as Lorain County’s first Emergency Management Director back in the 1970’s.

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MOTHER INJURED IN ROLL OVER

THREE SMALL CHILDREN ESCAPE WITHOUT INJURY

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Penfield – Driver “inattention” was the cause of a single car roll over on Route 18 in Penfield Township late Saturday afternoon.

Captain Jim Clark of the Wellington Fire District said that one adult and three small children were in the Ford Explorer at the time of the crash. “When we arrived all four people had already been removed by neighbors. Witnesses told us that the three small children were all properly restrained, hanging upside down and all unharmed.”

Trooper Clifton Dowell of the Ohio State Highway Patrol said that Jodi Unangst of Wellington was traveling west on Route 18 at the time of the crash. “Traffic ahead of her was slowing while a car was attempting to make a left hand turn into a private driveway. Looks like it was possibly driver inattention – before she ran into the rear of a vehicle she swerved to the right to avoid hitting the car. She went off in a ditch then came back on the roadway – went back off the right side of the road and that is when she over turned and rolled the vehicle.”

Trooper Dowell said that Unangst suffered minor to moderate injuries while all of the children were unharmed. Although the crash remains under investigation Dowell said that Unangst will be charged with Failure to Control.

Captain Clark pointed out how this crash shows how important it is for children to all be properly secured in their car seats. “Everyone of these children, ages 1 to 4 years, were properly restrained and they all escaped this crash unharmed. Had they not been properly restrained, I would hate to see what the outcome would have been.”

Two weeks prior, to the day, TMCNEWS.NET spent the morning at the Wellington Fire District main Station on Kelly Street as they conducted a child car seat safety inspection. To see that story: CLICK HERE

To see more photos from the crash scene: CLICK HERE

MAN INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH

Amherst – A collision between a motorcycle and a car on North Ridge Road sent one man to the hospital with minor injuries.

The crash occurred on North Ridge Road near Oberlin Ave on Saturday afternoon. LifeCare Paramedics and Firefighters from the Amherst Fire Department treated the victim at the scene and then transported him to Community Health Partners Emergency Room.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating the crash.

To see more photos from the scene: CLICK HERE

WOMAN STABS BOYFRIEND

Elyria – An Elyria woman was arrested Friday night after Police say she stabbed her boyfriend in the chest during a domestic dispute.

Police were called to 146 S. Abbe Road late Friday night after 30-year-old Angie Turek allegedly stabbed 32-year-old Gerrard Majkut during an argument. When Police arrived Turek had locked herself in a bathroom with a small child. After a brief negotiation Turek released the child and was taken into custody by Officers.

LifeCare Paramedics and Elyria Firefighters treated Majkut for the stab wound to his upper chest area. Majkut had already pulled the knife out before help arrived – he also broke the knife in half with his own hands. He then fled the house while Turek went to the kitchen in search for another knife. While Majkut called Police Turek locked herself in the bathroom.

Paramedics transported Majkut to Elyria Memorial Hospital where he was flown a short time later to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland.

Police took Turek into custody and charged her with Domestic Violence and Felonious Assault.

WHEELS ROLLIN

Carlisle Township – Bikers from all over participated in Carlisle Township Fire Department’s 1st Annual “All Wheels Aside – Fun Run”. Bikers took off from the Station at 11am and ended with food and live music at the AmVets on Middle Ave.

To see more photos: CLICK HERE

BROTHERS RALLEY AROUND VOLAK

Lorain – They have called it a “Brotherhood” and never has it been more evident in the Lorain Fire Department family as it has been since Firefighter John Volak was involved in a serious motorcycle crash in Lorain on Thursday.

Volak, a veteran Lorain Firefighter, remains in critical condition at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland – surrounded by family and friends. Fellow Firefighters have been at the hospital around the clock since Volak arrived at Metro, many using vacation time or trade days.

Doctor’s met with Volak’s wife Jamie Friday and informed her and others that they the pressure around his head had not come down as they had hoped. They were told that the Doctors would be drilling an additional hole to add a different monitor that would help them better evaluate the situation to help determine treatment options.

Some good news came late Friday when the new monitor showed the pressure to be “only slightly above normal”.

Doctors will keep Volak on medication to regulate cranium pressure as well as fight any infections.

They will keep John on medication to regulate cranium pressure as well as fight infection, etc.

Volak’s Brothers at the Lorain Fire Department have begun collecting donations to assist the Volak family. If anyone would like to contribute to the fund may do so by visiting the Lorain Central Fire Station located at 1350 Broadway.

Firefighters have also created a website that will allow people to follow the progress of Volak – you can visit that website at www.johnvolak.info to learn more or to post comments. Feel free to post your thoughts and well wishes here and they will be forwarded to the family.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

The Vermilion Firefighters invite you to their PANCAKE BREAKFAST on Sunday August 17th from 8AM to 12:30PM at their Station #1 located at 5467 Ohio Street.

Guests will enjoy Pancakes, Sausage, Juice, Coffee & Milk.

Donations will support the Vermilion Fire Company Social Club

CAN YOU FILL THESE BOOTS?

Elyria Township – The HELP WANTED sign has been hung outside of the Elyria Township Fire Department on Griswold Road – They are looking for a few good men & women.

Captain Tim Midkiff of the Elyria Township Fire Department said that for various reasons their Department has been losing people. “We’re looking to add a few people to our family. Over the last couple of months we have had some people pick up and move on with their lives. Being a volunteer department people come and go as they please, time permitting they offer their time down here at the station to help – recently we have had a couple people move on and now we are looking to fill those shoes.”

Midkiff said they are looking to fill the position of Fir efighter / EMT (Emergency Medical Technician). “The best part of it is you can come in here with no certifications and no training, but if you want to work with our department we will send you to school and pay for the schooling for fire and EMS. The only catch there is that if we pay for it we expect to have two years of service from you and after the two years your commitment is complete.”

One of the requirements is that personnel live within 5 miles of the Township so not to delay response times.

Elyria Township Fire Department is considered “part time paid” department – that is their people get paid an hourly wage while they are on a call. To help speed up response times during the day their station is staffed with two people from 7AM to 7PM everyday.

Midkiff said there are many reasons why he feels this would be a good opportunity for people, especially those who have had an interest in the fire / EMS field. “This is a good place to get your feet wet and begin your career. Our department will pay for your fire and EMS school and we have training at the station ever Monday night. Our department works hard at keeping up with all of the latest technology and training for our personnel. If someone is looking to get onto a fulltime department this could be a good stepping stone for them, although we obviously would like them to stay with us we understand. Probably half of our department works for a fulltime department as well.”

Anyone interested in obtaining an application or just learning more about the opportunity to work with the Elyria Township Fire Department is invited to stop at their station anytime during the day between 7AM and 7PM. You can also call the department at 440.324.2973.

FOUR MORNING CRASHES - 11 VICTIMS

Four morning crashes, within four hours of each other, sent a total of eleven people to the hospital.

7:32AM – A collision between a Lorain County Transit Bus and a pick up truck sent a total of six people to Community Health Partners West Campus Emergency Room. Herb de la Porte, Vice President of LifeCare Ambulance, said that all six people were treated and transported with minor injuries consisting of bumps, bruises and other complaints.

The crash occurred in the intersection of East 42nd and Palm Ave when a pick up truck struck the LCT bus. Lorain Firefighters had to use tools to help free the passengers from the bus.

The Lorain Police Department is investigating the crash.

8:22AM – A crash involving a motorcycle in Carlisle Township send the driver of the bike first to Elyria Memorial Hospital Emergency Room – then to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland by helicopter a short time later. The crash occurred on Diagonal Road at Mallard Creek, just north of Whitehead Road. Firefighters say the driver of the bike ran into the read of a Ford Ranger and then went off the road. He was treated for injuries to his leg and possible fractured ribs at the scene before going to the hospital.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating the crash.

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11:00AM – A T-Bone collision on Gateway Blvd and Third Street occurred when 68 year old Barb Koerner of Elyria drove through a red light and plowed her Buick into the side of a full sized pick up truck – causing the truck to roll over several times.

Koerner was traveling south on Leo Bullocks Parkway when she collided with the truck driven by 52 year old Douglas Borrer who was traveling southbound on Gateway Boulevard.

Koerner has been charged for running the traffic light.

Although Koerner’s car sustained heavy front-end damage and Borrer’s truck rolled three times – both drivers, along with a passenger in Koerner’s car, suffered only minor injuries. All three were treated at the scene and transported to Elyria Memorial Hospital for evaluation.

The Elyria Police Department is investigating the crash.

11:39AM – Another T-bone collision occurred on Cleveland Street at Olive near Master Pizza. A woman driving in a funeral procession eastbound on Cleveland Street apparently fell behind approximately 90 feet or more from the procession as they drove through the intersection against the red traffic light. A man driving a minivan traveling south on Olive Street attempted to cross Cleveland Street (with a green light) when he was struck by the woman.

Witnesses sitting at the intersection at the time of the crash said that the gap between the woman’s car and the rest of the procession was plenty enough where the man would not have known a funeral procession was traveling along Cleveland Street.

The woman, although allowed to drive through red traffic lights while in the procession, did not use due regard for safety and will be charged with the offense. She was treated by LifeCare Paramedics and transported with a possible ankle fracture.

The Elyria Police are investigating the crash.

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