A devastating head-on collision Saturday morning on U.S. Route 62 in Perry Township claimed the lives of two people and left a juvenile passenger seriously injured, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The tragic crash has shaken the local community as families mourn the sudden loss of loved ones and authorities continue searching for answers about what caused the deadly collision.
Officials identified the victims as 21-year-old Cole Scholey of Beach City and 56-year-old Kelly Kemp of Massillon. Troopers said the crash occurred at approximately 7:15 a.m. near milepost 11 along U.S. Route 62. Investigators reported that Scholey was driving a 2019 Ford Ranger northbound when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle crossed left of center and entered the southbound lane directly into the path of an oncoming 2021 Honda Odyssey driven by Kemp.
The vehicles collided head-on with tremendous force, causing catastrophic damage to both automobiles. Emergency crews rushed to the scene and worked quickly to assist the victims, but the severity of the impact left little chance for survival. Kelly Kemp was pronounced deceased at the scene due to injuries sustained in the violent crash. The heartbreaking incident left first responders and witnesses facing a tragic and emotional scene along the highway.
Authorities said Cole Scholey suffered critical injuries in the collision and was transported by emergency personnel to Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital for emergency treatment. Despite lifesaving efforts by medical staff, Scholey later succumbed to his injuries. Meanwhile, a juvenile passenger riding in Kemp’s Honda Odyssey suffered serious injuries and was transported to Aultman Hospital for immediate medical care. Officials have not released additional details regarding the child’s condition.
Investigators reported that neither driver was wearing a seat belt at the time of the collision. Troopers also stated that speed is believed to have been a contributing factor in the crash, though the exact sequence of events remains under investigation. Authorities continue examining evidence from the scene, including roadway markings, vehicle damage, and witness statements, as they work to determine what caused the Ford Ranger to travel into oncoming traffic.
As the investigation remains active, the Perry Township community is mourning the painful loss of two lives taken far too soon. Family members, friends, and loved ones are now left grieving while praying for the recovery of the injured child. The tragic collision serves as another heartbreaking reminder of the dangers that can unfold in a matter of seconds on the roadway and the lasting impact such tragedies leave behind on families and entire communities.
