Kristine Marie Baggs has been indicted by a Clark County Grand Jury for a hit-and-run accident that killed a Medway man last year.
Lawrence (Larry) Mason was struck and killed on N. Tecumseh Rd.in September, 2016. The vehicle that struck him was traced back to Baggs’ family, and she was arrested Monday afternoon.
“These past two days have been a whirlwind of emotions. I’m happy that my father is receiving justice. I don’t think I will ever fully get closure,” said Jordyn Mason, 24, Larry’s only child. “I was making tacos. Fajita tacos to be exact. I was cutting peppers and my mom called me. She just told me he had been in an accident and it was bad,” she said. “I hadn’t talked to my dad in weeks, we weren’t on the best terms, which really sucks man, but I rushed to the hospital immediately.”
Baggs is a teacher in the Northeastern School District and was arrested the day before Thanksgiving break.
“I feel horrible for this woman’s children” said Jordyn. “I can’t help but wonder how she would feel if something like this happened to somebody that she loved. She’s not only taken someone’s life and decides to not hold herself accountable but her actions have mentally affected people in a negative way, watching my aunt be traumatized by this incident and my grandma live in pain is horrible. I’m getting married in a year and I wish that this woman could understand how deeply devastated I am that my dad won’t be there with me or walk me down the aisle.” she added.
Jordyn noted her struggle to understand Baggs' lack of response to the accident while also wondering if Baggs is capable of understanding the impact made on the Mason family.
“I can’t understand how someone could live with themselves. I couldn’t. I hope she thinks about everything. I hope she realizes how many lives she’s impacted in a negative way by taking such a beautiful soul from this world and not caring. I would never wish this pain on anyone not even her but I really hope my dad receives the justice he deserves.”
Mason’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit in August, seeking medical and burial costs and other damages exceeding $25,000.
Jordyn expressed her gratitude to members of the community during her family's time of need, noting that it was their support that got them through.
“I’m so appreciative of everyone’s support through all of this, since the very beginning, without this community I would not have been able to pay for his memorial. I will miss and love my dad forever. Everyone will,” she said. “The pain never stops it’s always there, I’ve just had to learn to manage it. He was the happiest guy. He did everything for everyone.”
The Grand Jury met November 20 and deliberated for nearly two hours before returning with an indictment. Baggs has been charged with Failure to Stop After an Accident (a misdemeanor), Tampering with Evidence, Vehicular Manslaughter, Vehicular Manslaughter, all felonies.
“I was with my best friend and niece when I heard (Baggs) had been arrested, I couldn’t really tell you how I felt because it was a roller coaster of emotions,” Jordyn said.
Clark County Prosecutor Andy Wilson has reportedly recused himself from the case, so a special investigator from the Ohio Highway Patrol led the investigation and presented the case for prosecution.
Judge Douglas Rastatter will be hearing the case.
Regarding her thoughts on Baggs in the days to come, Jordyn said she hopes that the woman charged in her father's death is able to fully grasp the severity of her actions, and that others will actively pay more attention when driving.
“I hope this woman finds peace. I hope when everything is said and done she realizes what she has done,” Jordyn said. “If you are driving please watch for anything on the road. People's loved ones are out there. Please always be aware of your surroundings.”
