HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Families in Huntington still have concerns about visiting Ritter Park two days after a motorist struck a light pole.
“The peace of mind that was taken from me, and I feel like the innocence that was stolen from those families and our children that day, it’s going to take a while to rebuild that,” Darrah Cain told WSAZ-TV.
Tabitha and Bradley Wyrick turned themselves in Tuesday, a day after the vehicle Tabitha Wyrick was driving struck a light pole. Huntington police said she overdosed prior to the wreck. Authorities found heroin under Bradley Wyrick’s seat.
Tabitha Wyrick faces misdemeanor charges of DUI and reckless driving, while Bradley Wyrick has been charged with drug possession and permitting DUI. Both individuals are out on bond after less than a day in jail.
Huntington Police Chief Hank Dial said at a press conference Wednesday laws need to be changed.
“Laws in our country are often reactionary,” he added.
Greater Huntington Parks and Recreation Director Kevin Brady told WSAZ-TV something needs to happen to prevent incidents like Monday’s collision from happening.
“It’s a crime to do heroin. They need to start paying like a criminal does. If you do the crime, you need to do time,” he said.
Cain said while no one was injured, the damage is already done.
“What those children saw and heard and what the adults saw and heard I know I will soon not forget,” she said.