Two Ohio high school graduates dead following head-on collision

OHIO — The Otsego Local Schools community is mourning the tragic loss of two recent high school graduates, Jack Rowland and Brayden Sadler, following a fatal head-on crash early Saturday morning.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred just after midnight on Henry–Lucas County Road near South River Road. Rowland and Sadler, both 18, were each operating off-road vehicles in opposite directions when they collided head-on. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

Troopers said the vehicles were not street legal and neither teen was wearing a helmet. Alcohol is suspected to be a factor in the crash.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate with assistance from the Lucas County Sheriff’s Office, the Ohio Investigative Unit, and the Providence Township Fire Department.

The two young men had just graduated from Otsego High School on Thursday as members of the Class of 2025.

“We have learned of the heartbreaking loss of two 2025 Otsego High School graduates, Jack Rowland and Brayden Sadler, who graduated this past Thursday,” Superintendent Kevin O’Shea wrote in a letter to families and the community Saturday.

“Jack and Brayden were beloved members of our senior class and our Otsego family. Their loss is profound and we mourn alongside their families, friends, classmates and all who knew and loved them.”

O’Shea noted that grief counselors and mental health professionals will be available to students and staff starting Tuesday.

“Otsego is a tight-knit and caring community,” he said. “In times like these, we lean on each other. We will stand together to support Jack and Brayden’s families and friends and find ways in the days ahead to honor their memory.”

The district is also encouraging families to talk with their children about grief and is offering support services.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with their families during this unimaginably difficult time,” O’Shea wrote. “Let us all take extra time to offer kindness and grace to those around us.”