On the morning of October 6, 2024, a devastating car accident in Clermont County, Ohio, claimed the lives of five individuals, including 31-year-old Mathew Penny from Lockland and a young woman named Chloe Love. The tragic collision occurred at 1:34 a.m. on State Route 28, near the Bronze Bell Bar and Grill in Pleasant Plain, shaking the local community and leaving families in mourning.
Mathew Penny was one of the victims of this fatal crash, as confirmed by his older brother, Michael Penny, in a deeply emotional post shared on social media. In the post, Michael expressed profound grief over the loss of his brother, stating that Mathew’s death was the result of a drunk driver’s reckless actions. “My brother Mathew Penny was killed last night by a drunk driver in Goshen. Please give me time to lose my mind,” Michael wrote in his heart-wrenching message. He also shared the personal agony of losing both of his closest companions within a few months: “My right-hand man was taken from me on 5/23/24, and now my left hand was taken from me on 10/6/24. All I have left is my sister.”
Chloe Love, another victim of the crash, was remembered as a lively and beloved young woman whose life ended far too soon. A GoFundMe page set up in her honor paints a picture of a person who left an indelible mark on those around her. “She had the most infectious laugh and was loved by everyone she met. Her loss is truly devastating, and she will be missed beyond measure,” the page reads. The fundraiser has already garnered significant support, reflecting the deep impact Chloe had on her community.
The accident took place on State Route 28 when a Chrysler, traveling eastbound, collided with a Subaru heading north into Pleasant Plain. According to initial reports from Sgt. Joseph Westhoven of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Chrysler was believed to be speeding at the time of the accident, which may have played a key role in the tragic collision. There were four occupants in the Chrysler. Three of them, including Mathew Penny, were pronounced dead at the scene. The fourth passenger was rushed to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and remains in critical condition.
Both occupants of the Subaru, who were reportedly wearing seatbelts, also perished in the accident. Authorities have not yet released their names, as they are still notifying family members. Investigators are continuing to piece together the exact details of the crash, but alcohol and excessive speed appear to be major contributing factors.
The tragic loss of life has sparked an outpouring of grief in the local community, as friends and family members of the victims struggle to come to terms with the events. Lockland Mayor David Ware expressed his condolences, noting the profound impact the tragedy has had on the town: “We are heartbroken by the loss of Mathew Penny, Chloe Love, and the other victims. Our thoughts are with their families during this incredibly difficult time.”
Unfortunately, fatal accidents caused by drunk driving remain a significant issue across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 11,000 people die each year in alcohol-impaired driving crashes. Ohio has seen its share of these tragedies, with over 400 fatalities linked to drunk driving in 2023 alone.
This accident is a sobering reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence and the devastating toll it takes on families and communities. As the investigation continues, authorities hope that this tragedy will serve as a call to action to prevent similar incidents in the future. Meanwhile, those left behind are grappling with an unimaginable loss, trying to find solace in the memories of their loved ones.
In the wake of this devastating event, the families of the victims are urging others to think twice before getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. The crash not only claimed the lives of five individuals but also forever changed the lives of their friends and family members. The pain they endure is immeasurable, and the hole left by their absence will never be filled.