Men still in hospital after ATV accident

Two 22-year-old men from the area remain hospitalized after a four-wheeler accident early July 1 in southeastern Jefferson County, a hospital spokeswoman said Friday.

Robert Robinson, Lawrence, and Chase Coffin, Oskaloosa, were riding a Suzuki all-terrain vehicle about 3 a.m. when the driver lost control of the vehicle as it approached a bridge near 54th and Washington roads south of McLouth, said Sgt. George Welch, a spokesman for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s office. Welch also said the accident report did not specify who drove the vehicle.

The passenger fell from the vehicle on a bridge on Washington Road, and the driver remained on the vehicle as it toppled over the bridge’s railing and fell about 10 feet, Welch said.

A LifeStar helicopter ambulance and crew flew both men to St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Mo. Kerry O’Connor, a hospital spokeswoman, said Friday afternoon that Robinson was listed in fair condition. A report on Coffin’s condition was unavailable because family members could not be located Friday to give permission for its release, she said.

Welch said officers continued to investigate the accident.