Following a severe crash in Butler Township that left a teenager seriously injured, a family is seeking justice. The incident occurred in February when 17-year-old Ryan Shepherd was struck on February 24. His family is now demanding charges against the driver responsible, who was attempting to evade police at the time of the collision.
Ryan, a senior at Butler High School preparing for his upcoming graduation and enrollment at Ohio University, is on a challenging path to recovery. He recently returned to school after missing several weeks due to injuries sustained in the crash.
The crash occurred when an elderly man driving a truck, identified as Gregory Horn Jr., collided head-on with Ryan while fleeing from police. The Butler Township Police had initially attempted to stop Horn in a Walmart parking lot for a theft complaint. However, Horn accelerated away, ultimately crashing into Ryan on Miller Lane. Police video footage confirms that officers did not pursue Horn.
Ryan’s mother, Kailah Shepherd, recounted the aftermath of the crash, stating that her son needed to be extricated from his vehicle and spent a week in the trauma unit at Miami Valley Hospital, where he underwent two major surgeries in a single day. Since then, Ryan has required numerous hospital visits and is currently undergoing both physical and mental therapy.
The crash report indicates that Horn crossed the center line, resulting in the collision with Ryan’s car. It also suggests that Horn was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and other substances. Despite the circumstances, Horn was only charged with two counts of theft related to the original shoplifting complaint. The sheriff’s office continues to investigate the crash, with plans for prosecutors to review the case for additional criminal charges.
The Human Angle
This tragic incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by victims of reckless driving. For Ryan and his family, the crash has not only disrupted his educational plans but also imposed physical and emotional burdens that require extensive therapy and rehabilitation. The impact on their lives is profound, emphasizing the critical need for accountability and justice in such cases.
The community’s safety is also brought into focus, highlighting the importance of effective law enforcement strategies to prevent high-risk scenarios involving fleeing suspects. The investigation’s outcome could set a precedent for handling similar incidents, potentially influencing police pursuit policies and legal consequences for drivers who endanger public safety. As the case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the far-reaching effects of irresponsible actions on individuals, families, and communities alike.