News

Actions

Vigil Held For Teens Killed In Crash

Posted at 10:31 PM, Dec 12, 2012
and last updated 2012-12-12 22:31:10-05

MUSKEGON, Mich. – A community came together Wednesday night to remember the lives of three teens killed five years ago to the day.

More than a dozen people held candles, covered a tree in glow rings and other decorations, all with the hope their vigil will remind others not to drink and drive.

The fatal crash at M120 near Orchard Lane in Muskegon killed three teens, the passengers of a car driven by another teen who had been drinking, Chad Bickham.

Bickham was found to have a blood alcohol level two and a half times the legal limit when he collided with a semi truck while attempting to make a left turn.

The crash killed Bickham’s step-brother Shawn Huq, and two friends, Aaron Pham, and Terry Ripley.

Ripley’s mother, Carol, said five years have gone by with little healing, “Eventually they say it’s supposed to get a little better, so we will see how that goes.  I’m still waiting for that.”

Andrew Bickham was also at the vigil, he lost his step-son, Shawn, in the crash.  His son, Chad, had a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit and was sentenced to 7 to 15 years in prison.

Bickham hopes others can learn from his son’s mistakes.

“You hear it everyday,” said Bickham.  “Somebody just makes the wrong decision, there is no call for it.”

The families hope having a vigil on display near the scene of the crash five years ago will remind people not to drink and drive.

“There is always somebody to call,” said Ripley.  “There is always someone to get a ride from.”