After an 18-year-old woman was killed in an I-75 collision when a truck tire flew through the windscreen, a Cincinnati man will serve seven years in jail.
Almost a year after the event, Ricky A. Raider, 37, was taken into custody by the Boone County Sheriff’s Office. On June 4, the Boone County Sheriff’s Office filed an indictment against him for Lauren A. Collins’ July 16, 2023, death.
Amy Marsh, Collins’ mother, and three other family members—Collins’ father, stepfather, and grandmother—discussed the impact of the tragedy on Thursday.
Marsh clarified that there is a feeling of relief. We were terrified that we would have to endure a painful trial.
Raider will be imprisoned for seven years without the chance of release. Raider expressed regret to Collins’ family in court on Thursday.
Raider told the media, “I’m so sorry I cut your time with her short,” addressing Lauren Collins’s family, friends, and loved ones. I can’t tell you how sorry I am for hurting you. I wish I could go back in time since it was such a strange accident.
Please know that I apologize once more from the bottom of my heart. I shall always carry this sorrow close to my heart.
According to the sheriff’s office, a truck on I-75 heading north lost a tire and rolled uncontrollably over the concrete barrier, into oncoming traffic, and then into Collins’ windshield.
Raider admitted to losing a tire on the interstate over the weekend when he reported himself to the Independence Police Department on July 22, 2023.
However, he stated at the time that he didn’t believe anyone had been struck by his tire.
Sgt. Jeffy Nagy was able to receive a recorded phone call from Raider to a female inmate in the Bullitt County Detention Center on July 16, 2023, according to the sheriff’s office a few months later.
Raider said in the call that his tire came off his truck while he was traveling north on I-75. He added that he realized someone would probably be hurt or killed when he witnessed the tire colliding with Collins’ car.
Marsh stated, “There was a deviant chuckle in his voice that cut straight into my soul and should cut into the heart of anyone who has any empathy for human life,” in her statement to Boone County Judge James R. Schrand on Thursday.
Collins’ mother expressed her disbelief in Raider’s apology to WCPO.
Marsh retorted, “I heard what he said, and I don’t believe it.” There was absolutely no indication from his behavior that night that he felt any regret for other people.
Rather, the family is dedicated to carrying on Lauren’s legacy, Marsh said. Through the nonprofit Shine Like Lauren, Inc., they are paying tribute to her memory. It seeks to give northern Kentucky’s creative youth access to opportunities and scholarships.
According to Collins’ stepfather Jeremy Marsh, her infectious zest for life inspired everyone around her in a myriad of ways. She shared her passion for dance and performance with young dancers she coached at the studio.
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Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.