Former Meigs paramedic dies in ambulance crash

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Several years ago, I was blessed with the opportunity to do a 24 hour ride along with a crew from Meigs EMS. Jennifer Cross was one of the team members. She was one of the best that Meigs County EMS had. She had left Meigs County, but I count it a blessing to have gained the insight in the field that I did during that ride along. The Meigs Independent Press extends deepest condolences to her family including her first responder family.)

JACKSON, Ohio – A former Meigs County EMS paramedic died following a crash in Jackson County, Ohio.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the crash occured around 7 p.m. The crew was enroute to an emergency call. The two person team of Portsmouth Emergency Ambulance Serve were responding with lights and sirens on when the crash happened. A 2006 Dodge Ram struck the ambulance driven by a 22-year-old.

Paramedic Jennifer Cross, 43, of Jackson County was transported to the hospital, but died from her injuries. She was not wearing a seatbelt and may have been working in the back.

The ambulance driver and truck driver were not seriously injured. According to the OSHP, alcohol and drugs are not condsidered a factor in the crash. The investigation is ongoing.