WAYNE TOWNSHIP, Ohio – The Butler County Coroner’s Office has identified the 16-year-old victim of a tragic head-on collision that occurred early Thursday morning. The student, Wyatt Sidney Duckworth, a resident of Middletown, lost his life in the crash, as confirmed by Butler County Coroner Dr. Lisa Mannix.
The fatal crash took place on West Elkton Road at approximately 6:30 a.m., when Duckworth’s vehicle, a 2005 Pontiac, collided with a 2013 Chevrolet Suburban SUV. The Butler County Sheriff’s Office reported that Duckworth’s car crossed the center line, leading to the head-on impact with the SUV.
At the time of the crash, Duckworth was traveling with his 13-year-old sister, who was seated in the passenger seat. Authorities said the siblings were en route from their mother’s home in Hamilton to their father’s house, where they planned to prepare for school. The driver of the SUV, Kevin Johnson, a 60-year-old social studies teacher for Edgewood City Schools, was also critically injured in the accident.
Sergeant Steve Poff of the Butler County Sheriff’s Office explained the sequence of events, confirming that Duckworth’s vehicle veered left of the centerline, striking Johnson’s SUV. The exact reason why the teen’s car crossed the center line remains under investigation, and authorities are working to determine whether any external factors, such as weather conditions, speed, or road surface issues, may have played a role in the crash.
First responders arrived at the scene shortly after the accident was reported. Despite their efforts, Duckworth was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. His sister, whose name has not been released, was critically injured and airlifted to Dayton Children’s Hospital by CareFlight medical helicopter. She remains in critical condition with life-threatening injuries. Johnson, the SUV driver, was also flown by CareFlight to Miami Valley Hospital, where he, too, is being treated for life-threatening injuries.
Superintendent Kelly Spivey of Edgewood City Schools confirmed Johnson’s identity, stating that he has been a valued member of the school district, teaching social studies for several years. His condition remains a matter of concern for the school community, and they are hoping for his recovery.
Wyatt Duckworth, the 16-year-old victim, was a junior at Preble Shawnee High School. His younger sister is also a student in the same school district. Preble Shawnee Local Schools Superintendent Todd Bowling issued a statement to families, expressing condolences and outlining the support services being offered to students and staff affected by the tragedy.
In his letter, Bowling wrote, “Throughout today and Friday, October 18th, we will have counselors and support staff available for any student who wishes to talk or needs help processing this tragedy.” He also emphasized that the school will not be making a formal announcement to the entire student body but will instead provide personalized support as needed to students coping with the loss.
The accident has left the close-knit community of Wayne Township and the surrounding areas in shock. Friends and family of Duckworth have begun sharing their grief on social media, remembering him as a kind and caring young man with a bright future ahead. His death has devastated his family, classmates, and the larger community.
This tragic accident highlights the risks of early-morning travel, especially for young and inexperienced drivers. Road safety experts continue to stress the importance of adhering to traffic regulations, staying focused while driving, and adjusting to road conditions, especially in rural areas where roadways can often be less maintained and more hazardous.
The Butler County Sheriff’s Office has stated that the investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing. As the investigation unfolds, authorities may look into whether mechanical issues, distraction, or driver fatigue could have contributed to the collision.
Meanwhile, both the Duckworth and Johnson families are asking for privacy as they navigate this difficult time. Community members have rallied around both families, offering their support through words of encouragement, donations, and prayers.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a young life, while hoping for the recovery of the others involved in this devastating accident. For now, all eyes remain on the recovery of the two surviving victims and the impact this tragedy will have on those who knew and loved Wyatt Sidney Duckworth.