Mother describes survivor’s escape after 4 killed in crash in Mill Creek

CINCINNATI (WXIX) - Four people were killed Saturday after a vehicle crashed into Mill Creek near the Western Hills Viaduct, according to Cincinnati police.

Police say the vehicle hit a guardrail before entering the creek. Family and friends held a balloon release near the crash site to remember those killed.

Survivor’s mother describes the moments after the crash

The mother of the only survivor, Tracey Jones, said her daughter remains in serious condition following the crash.

“She’s very banged up, bruised up, walking with a limp; she can’t walk straight, but she’s very traumatized. She’s over the top traumatized,” Jones said.

Jones said the vehicle lost control, flipped multiple times and entered the water.

“They were riding and somewhat lost control, flipped about 10 to 15 times and then the last flip they flipped over. Then starting flipping down the pavement, then into the water and they said the car instantly went down,” Jones said.

Jones said her nephew was also in the car and was among those killed. Her daughter was seated in the middle back seat at the time of the crash.

“She doesn’t even know how she did it, but she did it,” Jones said of her daughter’s escape from the sinking vehicle.

Fire department used inflatable boat to reach victims

The Cincinnati Fire Department said the water was too deep for firefighters to safely reach the car. An inflatable boat was used to access the vehicle. All victims were eventually removed from the water.

Due to the amount of time the victims were underwater, the CFD said resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.

“They’re all young, full of life. Hard workers, little businessmen and women, you know, take care of their business. This is just a tragedy. I feel numb right now just speaking with you,” Jones said.

Investigation ongoing

The victims have not been officially identified. The Cincinnati Police Department said the crash remains under investigation and is asking any witnesses to contact the traffic unit.

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