Teen Killed, Another Injured in UTV Crash Near Gnadenhutten
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (July 1, 2026) – The Ohio State Highway Patrol New Philadelphia Post is investigating a fatal side-by-side utility task vehicle crash near Gnadenhutten that killed a teenager.
Troopers say it happened around 1:05 Tuesday afternoon on Longbranch Road in Clay Township. Troopers say a Polaris Ranger carrying two 14-year-olds was heading north, went off the right side of the road while going through a curve, and overturned.
Both teens were thrown from the vehicle. One died at the scene. The other was taken by medical helicopter to Akron Children’s Hospital. Troopers did not have an update on that teen’s condition as of Wednesday morning.
Investigators say neither rider was wearing a seatbelt or helmet.
The crash remains under investigation. Troopers say they were not yet sure whether the teen who died was driving or riding as a passenger.