One of the surviving drivers in last month's wreck that killed four University of Georgia students has released a statement concerning the accident that includes condolences for the students' families and an update on her own condition.
Abby Short, a 27-year-old EMT with National EMS, was driving home from working a 10-hour shift the night of April 27 when the car occupied by the students spun out in front of her on Greensboro Highway in rural Oconee County.
The resulting crash killed Halle Grace Scott, Christina Devon Semeria, Brittany K. Feldman and Kayla Leigh Canedo. Agnes Yena Kim, who was driving the car occupied by her fellow students, survived the crash with critical injuries. She was transferred last week to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta for brain injury rehabilitation.
Short, who is licensed as an advanced EMT, worked for National EMS for about one year. At the time of the crash, she was assigned to an ambulance crew serving both Athens-Clarke and Oconee counties.
The following message from Short was posted Wednesday on the National EMS Facebook page:
"Abby Short and her family would like to express to all concerned that we are truly heartbroken and saddened by the loss of precious lives. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all families involved in the Oconee County accident of April 27, 2016. We would appreciate everyone continuing to lift the families up in prayer, and ask that God will give them comfort and peace.
"Abby is currently recovering from her injuries and the recent surgery which took place at Athens Regional Medical Center to repair the broken bones in her ankle. She is at home with family and close friends surrounding her and providing needed support.
"We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the emergency personnel from the National EMS team, as well as all who administered aid from Athens Regional Medical Center, and the Oconee County Sheriff and Fire Department.
"Abby and her family appreciate the continued dedication and support from Abby’s co-workers at National EMS. We are grateful for their continued acts of kindness and encouragement by the employees and staff of National EMS. You will never know how much your thoughtfulness has been appreciated."
The crash continues to be investigated by the Georgia State Patrol's Specialized Collision Construction Team. The probe has so far ruled out excessive speed and alcohol as contributing factors.
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