Springfield, Ohio – In the wake of a devastating school bus crash that claimed the life of young Ohio student and left many others injured, the heartbroken family of the young student victim has made a heartfelt request.
Clark County Prosecutor Daniel Driscoll announced on Thursday evening that, at the family’s request, local law enforcement will be removing the memorial that has sprung up at the site of the Northwestern Elementary School bus crash.
The tragic incident unfolded on August 22nd when a school bus, carrying 52 students and the driver, collided with a minivan driven by Hermanio Joseph, 35, on Troy Road (Ohio 41) at Lawrenceville. Aiden Clark lost his life in the accident, and many others were injured, some seriously.
Hermanio Joseph, who presented Mexican ID in court, appeared in Clark County Municipal Court, pleading not guilty to a fourth-degree felony vehicular homicide charge. The judge set his bond at $100,000 cash or surety, citing concerns about the possibility of him being a flight risk.
The memorial, while a touching symbol of community support, has become a daily, painful reminder of the tragedy for the family. Prosecutor Driscoll emphasized the importance of the community’s support in helping the affected families heal and move forward.
The Northwestern Local Schools have rallied around those impacted by the tragedy, offering grief counseling and support services. A fundraiser for the Clark family has already raised over $48,000 in donations from compassionate donors.
