COLUMBUS—State Senator Jay Hottinger (R-Newark) today announced the passage of Senate Bill 26, which would designate a portion of State Route 93, in Perry County, as the “Crooksville Firefighters David Theisen and Stephen Carletti Memorial Highway.”

On February 5, 1998, Crooksville and Roseville Fire was dispatched to a house fire. Firefighters Theisen and Carletti entered the residence and proceeded into the basement to search for the fire. While proceeding to the basement, their hose line was snagged by a folding chair and the water supply was cut off. After locating the fire, the firefighters realized the line had no water. As this happened the ceiling collapsed. Due to the intense heat and fire, rescue attempts failed and, as a result, they made the ultimate sacrifice for their community.

"The unimaginable bravery of David Theisen and Stephen Carletti is an inspiration, both to me and our community," said Hottinger. "By naming a portion of State Route 93 in their honor, we will cement their memory and sacrifice for generations to come. Thank you to all of our first responders who assume great personal risk to protect the public."