A tragic UTV crash in Pickaway County, Ohio, claimed the lives of two individuals early Tuesday morning. According to Sheriff Matthew O. Hafey, the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call around 4:25 a.m. regarding a UTV that had crashed in a field in the 14000 block of Yankeetown Pike, Mt. Sterling.
Units from the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and Tri-County Fire Departments arrived on the scene. Both occupants of the UTV, 42-year-old Mahlon Riddick of Circleville and 19-year-old Austin Lucas of New Holland, were pronounced dead at the scene. The incident has left the community in shock and mourning as friends and family remember the victims.
Sheriff Hafey expressed gratitude to the Pickaway County Coroner’s Office, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Tri-County Fire Department, and Harrison Township Fire Department for their assistance with this tragic event. The incident remains under investigation by the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office as authorities work to determine the cause of the crash.
The loss of Mahlon Riddick and Austin Lucas has deeply affected their families and the broader Pickaway County community. Friends and neighbors are remembering them as vibrant individuals whose lives were tragically cut short. The incident has also raised concerns about off-road vehicle safety and the need for increased awareness of the risks involved.
Authorities are urging caution and vigilance when operating off-road vehicles, especially in rural areas where accidents can occur. The investigation is ongoing, and officials are working to piece together the events that led to the fatal crash.
Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of Mahlon Riddick and Austin Lucas during this incredibly difficult time. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and caution when using off-road vehicles to prevent such devastating accidents.