Collegiate Times

Blacksburg Police are investigating a single-vehicle crash that took place in the early hours of Oct. 31.

According to a release from Blacksburg Police, at approximately 12:10 a.m., a 2007 Kia Rodeo, driven by 24-year-old Pembroke, Va. resident Jessica Ratcliffe, crashed while driving northbound on North Main Street.

After running off the right side of the roadway at Mt. Tabor Road, the vehicle then went airborne, striking a utility pole guide wire, coming to rest on its roof.

Ratcliffe, trapped in the vehicle following the crash, had to be extricated from the vehicle. Initially transported to Montgomery Regional Hospital, she was later transferred to Roanoke Memorial Hospital because of the extent of her injuries. Ratcliffe’s injuries were focused on her lower extremities, her legs in particular.

There were no other passengers in the car.

Police determined that Ratcliffe was using a cell phone at the time of the crash and was not wearing her seat belt. Alcohol also may have played a role in the crash. The car Ratcliffe was driving “was a total loss,” according to the statement.

Police are still investigating the crash and charges are pending.