TOLEDO, Ohio – An Ottawa Hills resident, Susan Staelin, 80, was convicted on October 20 of failing to obey traffic laws after her car struck two sisters in a school zone on September 4. The incident occurred just before 3:15 p.m. as the children attempted to cross Bancroft Street in front of Hawkins STEAM Academy, a designated school‑zone area with active traffic signals and a crossing guard.
Details of the crash
According to Toledo police, the girls – an 11‑year‑old and her 5‑year‑old sister – were walking with the assistance of a crossing guard when the guard signaled that it was safe to cross. The guard’s lights were flashing, indicating a protected crossing period. Staelin, traveling eastbound on Bancroft Street, failed to slow down and entered the crosswalk, striking both children. Police reported that she narrowly missed the crossing guard as well.
When questioned, Staelin told officers she did not see the girls. The 11‑year‑old sustained multiple broken bones and head injuries, while the younger child suffered head trauma. Both were transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment.
Legal outcome
Staelin pleaded no contest to the citation for failure to obey traffic laws. The court scheduled her sentencing for October 27. While the specific penalties have not yet been disclosed, the conviction underscores the seriousness of obeying traffic regulations in school zones, especially when children’s safety is at stake.
Community response
The two sisters attend St. Benedict School. In a message to families, the school expressed deep concern and pledged support: “We will surround them with our prayers, love, and support and will do whatever we can to help their family in the days and weeks ahead.” The school urged the broader community to keep the family in prayer, reflecting the strong faith‑based values that many Toledo families hold dear.
Local residents have voiced a mix of sympathy for the injured children and concern over traffic safety near schools. Parents and community leaders are calling for heightened awareness and stricter enforcement of school‑zone speed limits to prevent future tragedies.
Safety reminders for drivers
Ohio law requires drivers to reduce speed and exercise heightened caution when approaching any school‑zone crossing, especially when traffic signals are active and a crossing guard is present. Failure to do so can result in citations, fines, and, as demonstrated in this case, criminal convictions.
Officials encourage motorists to stay vigilant, obey all posted signs, and respect the authority of crossing guards, who play a vital role in protecting children on their way to and from school.
Looking ahead
The upcoming sentencing will provide further clarity on the consequences for violating school‑zone traffic laws. In the meantime, the community continues to rally around the injured sisters and their family, offering prayers, support, and a reminder of the importance of safeguarding our children’s daily journeys.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
