Trucker charged in deaths of Blissfield pair arraigned

12/5/2000

ADRIAN - The driver of a tractor-trailer rig accused of causing a traffic accident that killed a Blissfield couple was arraigned yesterday in Lenawee County District Court on two counts each of negligent homicide and manslaughter with a motor vehicle.

Dean Watkins, of Erie, Pa. was released on a personal recognizance bond, and a preliminary examination was scheduled for Dec. 14. The July 14 accident occurred on U.S. 223 at Devils Lake Highway in Woodstock Township.

Reed Wotring was slowing in his lane for a vehicle in front of him that was slowing to make a turn. Deputies said a rig coming from behind was unable to stop and struck Mr. Wotring's vehicle, forcing it into the other lane of U.S. 223 where it was hit by Mr. Watkin's rig, killing Mr. Wotring and his wife, Ester.