Influx of wild-driving Haitian migrants turning streets of Springfield, Ohio into combat zone: ‘Eight to 10 accidents a day here’
SUMMARY
Springfield, Ohio is grappling with a surge in dangerous driving as about 20,000 Haitian migrants, unfamiliar with U.S. road laws, flood the city’s streets. Residents report up to 10 accidents daily, with many involving reckless driving. A tragic incident in December 2023 saw 71-year-old Kathy Heaton killed by a car driven by a Haitian migrant. Despite the driver’s expired license plates, no charges were filed, sparking outrage. Mandy Heaton, Kathy’s daughter-in-law, criticized the lack of proper driving education for immigrants, stating, "They’re given a license with minimal education and training on our laws." In response, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has pledged $2.5 million and additional state troopers to address the issue. The controversy has gained national attention, with Donald Trump mentioning it during a presidential debate, bringing Springfield into the national spotlight.
