The fiery five-vehicle crash, which included a bus of band students, killed six and injured 18 more members of the Tuscarawas Valley Local Schools community.
Three students, a teacher and two parents died. They were driving to a high school band performance at the Ohio School Boards Association in Columbus.
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The first obituaries memorializing those six lives are now available. This story will be updated as each obituary is published.
The victims are:
- Katelyn Owens, 15, a high school sophomore from Mineral City
- Wyatt Mosley, 18, a high school senior from Mineral City
- Jeffery D. Worrell, 18, a high school senior from Bolivar
- Dave Kennat, 56, a high school teacher from Navarre
- Kristy Gaynor, 39, a parent-chaperone from Zoar
- Shannon Wigfield, 45, a parent-chaperone from Bolivar, who also was a teacher at Buckeye Career Center
Katelyn Owens, 15, of Mineral City
“Katelyn Nicole Owens, age 15, a vibrant and talented young woman, died Tuesday morning, November 14, 2023, the result of a tragic traffic accident in Licking County. Katelyn leaves behind a legacy of determination and joy,” the obituary reads.
To read more, visit the TimesReporter website.
Wyatt Mosley, 18, of Mineral City
“John Wyatt Mosley, age 18, of Mineral City, was called home to be with our Lord on Tuesday, November 14, 2023. He was an amazing young man who was instrumentally and vocally talented. He was very humble, caring, funny, intelligent, a very hard worker and seemed always to be ahead of his time throughout his life. Loved deeply by all family and friends, he would lend a hand to anyone in need with great compassion. He enjoyed music, hanging out with his very good friends, programming games and had a love for acting. He will be missed so deeply by all who knew him,” the obituary reads.
To read more, visit the TimesReporter website.
Jeffery Worrell, 18, of Bolivar
“Jeffery David Worrell, of Bolivar, also known as JD and ‘Kitten,’ was taken from the world at the age of 18 on November 14, 2023. Jeff was a senior attending Tusky Valley High School, where he was in the marching band. He loved being in the band, and was a friend to all. He loved acting, performing in a number of school productions, and was very involved with the choir and performing with the speech and debate team,” the obituary reads.
To read more, visit the TimesReporter website.
Dave Kennat, 56, of Navarre
No obituary information has been released yet.
Kristy Gaynor, 39, of Bolivar
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kristin (“Kristy”) Marie Gaynor on November 14, 2023. She was 39 years old. Born on March 6, 1984, in Mayfield Heights, Ohio, Kristy was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, and mother. She embodied the values of tradition, faith, and family, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her,” the obituary reads.
To read more, visit the TimesReporter website.
Shannon Wigfield, 45, of Bolivar
“Shannon E. Wigfield 46, of Bolivar, died Tuesday, November 14, 2023 in Licking County. Born May 10, 1977 in Dennison, she was a daughter of Ronald L. and Susan Abbuhl of New Philadelphia. She was a 1995 graduate of Claymont High School, a 2000 graduate of Ohio University and was an English teacher the past 24 years at Buckeye Career Center In New Philadelphia. Shannon enjoyed shopping (especially at Target and Dollar General), crafting and most of all she enjoyed helping others,” the obituary reads.
To read more, visit the TimesReporter website.
This story will be updated.
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
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