Independent Enterprise
October 09, 1941
Slope Youngster Killed When Car Leaves Highway
Merle Skinner, 5, Killed Last Saturday Afternoon; Funeral Services Held Here On Monday
Merle Skinner, five year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Skinner, of Oregon Slope, was killed last Saturday afternoon while riding his bicycle when he was stuck by an automobile driven by Merle Jay Talbot, of this city.
The Skinner youngster was playing in front of his father's garage, which is located on the west side of the road at the Payette Junction on U. S. 30. An automobile driven by Merle Talbot was reported out of control, traveled about one hundred yards after leaving the highway, overturned and landed on its wheels after striking a telephone pole. The car which was practically demolished hit the Skinner youngster some twenty-five or thirty feet from the highway, according to police officers who investigated the case.
Automobile Defective
Officers stated that the stearing gear of the Talbot auto was defective and it is reported that the brakes also were not effective.
Dies At Hospital
The injured youngster was taken to the Holy Rosary hospital in Ontario where he died as a result of the accident.
Youths Injured
Talbot was accompanied by Marvin Solomon, 15, and both suffered minor injuries.
Skinner Funeral
Merle Skinner was buried at Riverside cemetery last Monday afternoon with Rev. G. A. Finch officiating and the Peterson-Foster Funeral home in charge of arrangements. He was born October 8, 1936 and came with his parents several years ago to the Payette Junction, where Mr. Skinner has been engaged in the garage business.