WINTER HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS BEGIN! The Modoc County Vol. 132, No. 35
RECORD Alturas, California
November 21, 2024
Serving Modoc Since 1892
$1.00
14 Pages
Tragic Accident on Hwy 139 Claims Life of 9-YearOld, Injures Two Others In a heartbreaking incident on Saturday morning the 16th, a collision on Highway 139, south of County Road 91, claimed the life of a 9-yearold Addilynne Sheila Mae Marie Schibbelhut and left two others with moderate to severe injuries. The accident occurred as the vehicle was heading north towards Klamath Falls. Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene. Adam Lafferty, who was driving the vehicle suffered from moderate to severe injuries, and was airlifted by an air ambulance to receive critical care. Another juvenile who is 14, who also sustained moderate to severe injuries, was transported by vehicle to
a nearby hospital. Both individuals are expected to recover, according to initial reports. Details of the collision are still under investigation. The tragic loss of Addi has sent waves of grief through the community. There is a meal train and gofundme that can be found through Modoc Records Facebook to help with raising funds and helping support the family. Officials urge drivers to exercise caution, especially as traffic investigators work to determine the factors contributing to this accident. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.
Photo from Alturas Elementary School Facebook Big Valley Elementary School paid tribute to Addilynne with this beautiful tribute poster celebrating the cherished memory of Addi
Drivers Urged to Use Caution on Icy Roads, Watch for Deer
Modoc County drivers are urged to exercise caution on local roads as icy conditions and an increase in deer activity pose heightened risks during the colder months. As temperatures have continued to increase so has the number of deer being found on the side of the road have also increased.
With freezing temperatures overnight, icy patches are forming on roads, and shaded areas throughout the day. Even during daylight hours, black ice can remain undetected, especially in areas shielded from the sun. Safety Tips for Drivers To help reduce the risk
of accidents, safety experts recommend the following: • Reduce Speed: Driving slower allows more time to react to icy patches or wildlife crossings. • Stay Alert: Keep distractions to a minimum and scan for movement along the sides of roads. • Use High Beams When Appropriate:
High beams can help spot deer earlier, but dim them when approaching other vehicles. • Brake, Don’t Swerve: If a deer crosses your path, brake firmly and stay in your lane. Swerving can lead to more severe accidents. • Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure tires have adequate tread, and
windshield wipers and defrosters are functioning properly. • Maintain Distance: Leave extra space between vehicles to allow more stopping time on icy roads. C o m m u n i t y Awareness Modoc County Sheriff Tex Dowdy encourages residents to “please lower your speed while driving
on wet and icy roads and avoid hard breaking. Slower speeds during inclement conditions reduces the potential for an accident.” Whether commuting to work or enjoying a weekend drive, motorists are reminded to take it slow and stay cautious. The life you save could be your own or a neighbor’s.