Stella Safreed Wheeling WV Obituary
Three Killed in Three-Vehicle Crash on I-70’s Dangerous Two-Mile Hill
Triadelphia, WV — A tragic three-vehicle crash on Thursday night claimed the lives of three people on Interstate 70 near The Highlands, according to the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office. The accident occurred on a stretch of the interstate known as Two-Mile Hill, notorious for its dangers due to speed and the steep grade.
The victims have been identified as 23-year-old driver Bobby Tidrick, and passengers Earl Safreed Jr., 32, and Stella Safreed, 27. Their vehicle, traveling east on I-70, crossed the median and collided with another vehicle before crashing into a tractor trailer.
The drivers of the other two vehicles were taken to WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital for evaluation and possible injuries. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
The crash shut down that portion of I-70 for several hours as law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency personnel worked at the scene. Ohio County Sheriff Tom Howard and Ohio County Emergency Management Coordinator Lou Vargo have highlighted the inherent dangers of Two-Mile Hill, emphasizing the critical need for caution.
Stella Safreed Wheeling WV Obituary
The stretch of road is particularly perilous due to a combination of factors, including a steep 5% grade and a sharp turn at the bottom of the hill, which can lead to drivers unintentionally picking up excessive speed. Sheriff Howard stated that speeding is a frequent problem, with some drivers caught traveling well over the 65 mph speed limit, with some going as fast as 90 mph or more.
The accident is the latest in a series of incidents on Two-Mile Hill, reinforcing the need for motorists to be vigilant. Both Howard and Vargo emphasized the importance of defensive driving and adherence to the speed limit to reduce the risk of such tragedies.
Howard also reiterated his long-standing call for the installation of cable barriers in the median along I-70’s Two-Mile Hill to prevent vehicles from crossing into oncoming traffic. While crashes may still occur, Howard believes the barriers could save lives by reducing the severity of collisions.
“We’re trying to save lives,” Howard said, urging caution and care from all drivers who navigate this hazardous stretch of the interstate.
In conclusion, we offer our love and compassion to the family in the coming days and weeks. In addition, years. Moreover, this pain never ends for most, one must accept such. Furthermore, often families request privacy. However, almost always, support during this incredibly difficult time. Lastly, this spirit will become deeply missed and forever remembered. Thus, for the kindness and joy brought into the lives of those around. Lastly, lastly, God bless!
3 killed in I-70 crash near The Highlands in W.Va. – Observer-Reporter
Update: Names Of Victims In I-70 Fatal Crash Released | News, Sports, Jobs – The Intelligencer
