Blue Hill community reacts to loss

Tools

by Dara Newson

The community of Blue Hill is extremely devastated by this tragic accident. Many found it hard to talk about.

The small town of 867 people is much like a family.

News 5's Dara Newson has spoken with a number of community members Thursday, also the superintendent of schools.

She spoke to one mother who refused to talk on camera, but she did say her daughter was best friends with one of the victims who died in the car crash.

And when she told her daughter what happened the young girl collapsed in her arms.

Residents are saying the incident is heartbreaking. Many came to tears talking about how devastating it is to loose a loved one.

Another parent News 5 spoke with lives right next to the school. He has three children that attend Blue Hill and he also knows some of the victims involved.

The Thramers Grocery store owner also knew Travis Witte, the driver of the tractor trailer.

Here's what community members had to say about the victims and their families.

"Travis was a very good-hearted person, fun-loving. He's a very good kid," said Deb Thramer.

"Kinda makes your heart sink a little when you hear something like that. Everybody that has been involved in the accident our hearts go out for them and prayers. Wish them well. I know it's going to be a rough time, but we'll get through it," Robert Piel said.

Another parent told me her 5th grade daughter was also in the same class of one of the victims who died on the scene.

On Demand

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

Poll

Should the legal limit for alcohol behind the wheel be lowered from .08 to .05?

  • Yes
  • No

Local Gas Prices

Lowest Gas Prices in Tri-Cities
Nebraska Gas Prices provided by GasBuddy.com

KHASTV on Facebook

Weather Closings