Ted's Blog

The tragedy on Seven Hills Road (or Ghost Road)
I spent all morning working on a memorial page for the yearbook. Lots of kids watched and a few brought in candids that they'd had of Kirk. So, I guess my worry about what to say & do worked it's self out.

It is pretty heavy here.

Here's the official press release:

"At approximately 4:00 yesterday afternoon on dirt road east of town, five students were in a two car accident; Cody Malone, Doug Nichols, Michael Nemitz, Tim Murphy and Kirk Sturgill. Emergency staff worked to stabilize, the students. Three students were life flighted to various hospitals, Crawford County Memorial, UNMC in Omaha, and Mercy Hospital in Sioux City. The nature of Kirk’s internal injuries were severe and sadly, he died last evening. Tim is in Denison and is expected to be released today. Doug and Cody are at UNMC. Cody is anticipated to be released today, also. Mike originally went to Denison hospital and might be transferred to Omaha today for facial surgery.
We are still waiting to hear about funeral arrangements, but you will be updated when we have more information. The crisis team will be at the school to support the students, teachers, and community.

Other facts if students ask:
Senior Tim Murphy- cuts and abrasions
Freshman Mike Nemitz- broke bone below his eye
Freshmen Cody Malone- Broken bone
Sophomore Doug Nichols-Facial injuries
Freshman Kirk Sturgill —torn aorta"

I have been told this morning that Tim is in the best shape and that he and Cody will probably be released today. Doug and Mike will need reconstructive surgery for facial inguries, Doug has a shattered lower jaw. They're discouraging visitors and will probably wait to tell him about Kirk because Doctors don't want too much anxiety/chemical activity/whatever for his brain.

That's all I know at this time. There's lots of talk about when the memorial service and funeral will be. The Sturgills are members at St. Patrick's here in Dunlap. Word is going around that it will be here at school because the Church is too small.

Thank you for your support.