May 24, 2013

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Reporter: Mike McKnight Email

Family Still Waiting For Answers, Charges In Fatal Crash

A heartbroken Missouri Valley, Iowa family is still waiting for answers and justice two-and-a-half months after a wife and mother was killed in a head-on crash when a driver crossed the center line. Was that driver impaired? Why is it taking so long to find out?

“This is the first time I've ever seen these pictures.” Tears of disbelief from the 15-year-old daughter of 54-year-old Jennette McGrew, killed February 1st when another car swerved into her path about two miles east of Missouri Valley.

“She fought through cancer and was a seven-year survivor and couldn’t make it through a car wreck,” says daughter Ellen. “It’s been way too long. I just want it to be over.”

The other driver hasn't been charged in the crash.

The crash investigator tells Fact Finders that pills, not alcohol, are the focus and prescription drug levels require more testing. The driver had a prescription, but did she take too many?

A witness followed her from Omaha to Missouri Valley, calling 911 centers in two counties. “Why was she never pulled over?” asks husband Dan McGrew.

The accident report states the driver who crossed the line provided proof of insurance. The McGrew family did receive notice from an insurance company they thought had a policy on the car that allegedly hit Jennette, but it says “we will not provide coverage.”

“Another punch in the gut,” says Dan. “No amount of money will bring my wife back, but now I have to pick up all the bills, too.”

When Ellen looks at a photo of the crash that killed her mother she remembers being on a school bus approaching the scene and forced to turn around. Only later did she learn what she missed, then and forever. “I get to see her pictures, but I never get to hear her voice again. I never get to have her hold me.”

The 911 centers for Douglas and Pottawattamie counties say procedures were followed in taking the citizen's call about a dangerous driver before the crash. Douglas County put out a general broadcast for law enforcement to be on the lookout.

As for that driver, Channel 6 News is not naming her because she has not been charged with a crime. Fact Finders was unable to contact her for comment.


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