Driver tests positive for drugs

Originally published in the Early Bird Jan. 4, 2020

By Bethany J. Royer-DeLong

COLUMBUS — Drugs may have played a part in the crash that took the life of Arcanum
resident Kimra Skelton, an Ohio State Highway Patrol motor carrier inspector, in November.

According to the crash report and witness statement, Christopher G. Coorough, 44, of Dayton,
was traveling from Kettering to Sidney in a Ford F-250 when he went off the left side of the road
and struck Skelton parked in a crossover on I-75 in Miami County, between Troy and Piqua.

Coorough claimed no distractions or other cars were involved in the accident, in a statement
given to authorities. When asked if he fell asleep, he responded he wasn’t sure.

When asked the last time he consumed alcohol or drugs, Coorough responded that he does not
drink or do drugs.

However, the report reveals Coorough tested positive for amphetamine drugs. Whether the drugs
were illegal or prescription will be kept “close to the chest” by investigators while awaiting
charges, says Trooper Sheldon Goodrum, with the Ohio State Highway Patrol in Englewood.

Coorough sustained only minor injuries in the crash.

Skelton, 49, a member of the Patrol since October 2005, was pronounced dead at the scene.

As previously reported, law enforcement and first responders from throughout the region, as well
as family and friends descended on Arcanum to pay their respects to the Skelton family on Dec 3
and 4.

In addition to Ohio, several states sent highway patrol units, including Indiana, Michigan,
Wisconsin, Missouri, and more. Guests included Governor Mike DeWine and Colonel Richard
S. Famro, superintendent of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Skelton is survived by her husband of 26 years, Brian, and her two children, Cole and Macy.