Kirk Barton, a former offensive lineman for the Ohio State Buckeyes football team, has been charged following a deadly car crash in Dublin, Ohio, on Saturday, June 21.
The crash resulted in the death of 24-year-old Ethan Wence Perry, the driver of a Lexus involved in the accident. Barton, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, is now facing charges related to the incident.
Details of the Crash
At approximately 2:56 a.m. local time on June 21, Barton was driving a Ford F150 Raptor at what authorities believe was a high rate of speed when he collided with Perry’s Lexus, which was traveling eastbound on U.S. 33/S.R. 161. The crash occurred on West Bridge Street, and Perry tragically died at the scene.
Following the crash, Barton was transported to Riverside Methodist Hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. After being released from the hospital, he was taken into custody by the Dublin Police Department and later transferred to Franklin County Jail.
Authorities announced that Barton would face one count of aggravated vehicular homicide in connection with the crash.
Road Closures and Investigation
The crash caused significant disruption in the area, with both West Bridge Street and North High Street being shut down in both directions, along with the westbound S.R. 161/Riverside Drive roundabout.
The roads were reopened later that morning, around 10:15 a.m. The investigation is ongoing, and the authorities are continuing to piece together the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Barton’s Background and Charges
Kirk Barton, now 40 years old and living in Lewis Center, Ohio, is a former Ohio State football star. He played for the Buckeyes from 2003 to 2007, earning first-team All-American honors in 2007 and starting in two national championship games.
Barton later went on to be drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 2008 NFL Draft but was released shortly after, spending time with other NFL teams’ practice squads.
The charges against Barton include aggravated vehicular homicide, but as of June 21, no bond amount was listed. Barton is scheduled to appear at Franklin County Municipal Court on Monday, June 23, to face the charges.
Response from the Ohio State Community
News of the crash and Barton’s involvement has deeply affected the Ohio State football community. Buckeye Scoop, a sports website, expressed their sorrow on social media, writing, “We are heartbroken for Ethan Perry and his loved ones. This is a tragedy.” The community is still gathering more information as they process the devastating news.
A History of Traffic Offenses
In addition to the current charges, records from Franklin County Municipal Court reveal that Barton has a history of traffic offenses. The details of those prior incidents have not been fully disclosed, but they add further complexity to the case as it moves forward.
This tragic incident serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the consequences of reckless driving. Ethan Perry’s death has left his family and loved ones devastated, and as authorities continue their investigation, Kirk Barton faces serious legal consequences.
The community, especially those connected to Ohio State University, is processing the loss and the shock of what occurred.
