Published: July 16, 2008 09:30 pm      

Heart attack blamed for auto death

A seizure or heart attack is being blamed for an automobile accident that claimed the life of a Blooming Grove man Tuesday.

Elmer Ledbetter, 76, who had a history of heart problems, died at Navarro Regional Hospital following Tuesday’s accident that occurred on FM 55 about four miles north of Blooming Grove.

According to a report issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety, Ledbetter was driving a 1999 Nissan south on FM 55 shortly after 4 p.m. when he left the west edge of the roadway and began to spin, striking one tree, then a second, before coming to a stop. Ledbetter was ejected from the vehicle. The report said he was not wearing a seatbelt.

Ledbetter was transported to Navarro Regional Hospital by Corsicana E.M.S. ambulance, where he was pronounced dead. Justice of the Peace Vicki Gray ruled the cause of death to be natural causes.

The accident was investigated by Trooper Dane Baker. He was assisted at the scene by the Navarro County Sheriff’s Department, Corsicana Fire and Rescue, Blooming Grove Volunteer Fire Department, Blooming Grove I.S.D. police and other troopers.

Funeral services for Ledbetter are scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday at Central Baptist Church at Blooming Grove.

— From Staff Reports