Logan County deputies build ramp for teenager who lost legs in May car crash

LOGAN COUNTY — Over the weekend, Logan County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Boyd and Deputy D. Dixon built a wheelchair ramp for a teenage girl who was severely injured after an accident.

Leah Smith, 16, of Belle Center, was seriously hurt when she lost both legs in a crash on State Route 292 on May 27.

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Logan County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Joe Kopus said three people who were at the crash scene that afternoon likely saved Smith’s life.

The three people took off their neck ties and used them as tourniquets. Tourniquets are traditionally used to help slow blood flow by applying pressure to a limb or extremity.

Smith ended up being flown by medical helicopter to Grant Hospital for treatment of her injuries. She’s now back at home.

Lowe’s in Bellefontaine donated all the supplies needed to complete the ramp project, according to Logan County Sheriff’s Facebook.

Smith has completed a few weeks of physical therapy and is learning how to adjust to life after the accident, according to the sheriff’s office.

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