MASON — An 87-year-old woman died Wednesday and her husband was in serious condition after a Michigan man crashed his van into the lobby of Cedar Village retirement community.

Mason firefighters/paramedics aid a victim of Wednesday's accident at the Cedar Village retirement community. (Michael Snyder photo) | ZOOM |

        Sarah Josephson, 87, was pronounced dead about 4 p.m. at Bethesda North Hospital, a hospital spokesman said. Her 93-year-old husband, Louis, was in serious condition there Wednesday evening. The couple lived in the assisted-living section of the retirement community.

        “People here have lost a friend,” said Reid Aaron, chief executive officer of Cedar Village. “They were a very nice couple. (Mr. Josephson) was very much devoted to her.”

        Police said charges are possible against the driver, Edward Traurig, 65. He was visiting his father-in-law at Cedar Village, Mr. Aaron said.

        Authorities and Cedar Village officials said Mr. Traurig apparently lost control of his van at the circle drive near the main lobby. The vehicle jumped a curb, continued through a short grassy area, then plowed through plate-glass doors to the right of the main entrance, striking the couple in the lobby.

        They were taken to Bethesda North by ambulance because medical helicopters were grounded by rain, said Deputy Fire Chief Ray Mueller.

        The accident occurred minutes before a large group of residents were to be released from activities in rooms adjoining the lobby.

        More than 200 people live at the facility.

        “Had the incident occurred a minute or two later, we would have had a lot more victims,” said Deputy Chief Mueller. “We feel very fortunate.”

        The building sustained minor structural damage, he said.

        Mr. Traurig was treated at the scene, but refused hospital evaluation.

        Police Sgt. Michael Downey said the 11:19 a.m. crash will be reviewed by the city prosecutor to decide whether any charges are filed.

        Rabbi Thomas Heyn of Blue Ash, chaplain of Cedar Village, said he learned of the accident upon returning from an out-of-town trip. He planned to visit Mr. Josephson at the hospital Wednesday night.

        “It's tragic that such a thing could happen,” he said.

        Cedar Village, a multilevel care facility, includes independent living apartments with assisted-living features, intermediate-care suites and 24-hour skilled nursing care. Alzheimer's care, short-term respite care and rehabilitation services are also offered.

        Community organizations often hold programs and meetings at Cedar Village. Mason City Council held a work session at the facility in December.
       

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