Son of Accident Victims Says Parents Are Doing Well

Son of Accident Victims Says Parents Are Doing Well


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Sandra Yi ReportingGarrett Barlow, Victims' Son: "They were headed to Romeo and Juliet. I guess they got free tickets and they thought it would be a great time to go."

The couple never made it to the show. Tragedy struck just outside when the couple was hit by a van. The elderly man and his wife are in the hospital this evening.

Ronald and LaRae Barlow told their children they have no hard feelings against the teenage driver of the van that hit them. In fact, they say they're concerned for him.

The couple is recovering at LDS Hospital. 72-year old Ronald is in satisfactory condition. His 70-year old wife suffered a broken pelvis and crushed shoulder. Both are expected to make a full recovery.

Garrett Barlow says his dad remembers the impact, being upside-down in front of the van and dragged for several feet. His wife, LaRae, was unconscious.

The couple was in a crosswalk when they were hit by a van full of teenagers. Police say the driver was distracted. He was not speeding, but he didn't break and the impact was severe. The Barlows say the teen driver is in their thoughts.

Garrett Barlow: "We're worried about his mental condition. My mother's just been expressing concerns that she really doesn't want him to beat himself up too bad. You know very concerned that he won't take any permanent mental scarring on it."

Garrett Barlow says his parents' feelings aren't surprising because they're very giving people. They retired 10-15 years ago and spend their time doing volunteer work.

Ronald Barlow suffers from Parkinsons disease and likes to walk for exercise. The couple was walking from their car to the theater when the crash happened. Their family says they're grateful their injuries weren't worse.

The teen driver could be cited for failing to yield at a crosswalk. He could also be cited for negligent collision. The penalties will depend on the condition of the victims, but it does look like they'll make a full recovery.

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