Joseph G. Heil, III faces charges of homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence of alcohol. Melissa Fogel is dead.

In Union Township, a deadly accident caused by a drunk driver took the life of Melissa Fogel, 17 year-old girl from Frackville. Sadly, all the passengers riding in the car with Melissa were seriously injured including Edward Fogel and two children. The tragic accident occurred on October 19, 2008. Melissa died at the scene. The other victims were taken to the hospital.  

We rely on our automobiles for transporting our children to their sports and scouting activities, doctor appointments and schools. According to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis (NCSA), the leading cause of death for children between the ages of 2 – 14 years of age is motor vehicle accidents (http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/810803.PDF). Motor vehicle accidents are also the leading cause of acquired disability in children. Children make up approximately 5% of the accident fatalities. Approximately 6 children are killed and 700 children are injured every day in car crashes. Nearly 21% of children that are killed in car accidents die from drivers that are operating vehicles while over the legal blood alcohol level.