Athens Twp, OH (September 15, 2025) – Emergency responders from Athens County were called to a deadly head-on collision that tragically claimed the life of a Corning woman and left another individual hospitalized. The crash occurred Sunday morning along State Route 682 in Athens Township.
First responders, including paramedics and local fire crews, worked quickly at the scene to assist victims. The Ohio State Highway Patrol confirmed that 27-year-old Monica Leigh Perani was traveling northwest on SR-682 when a pickup truck traveling in the opposite direction veered left of center and struck her vehicle head-on. The impact was severe, prompting an immediate emergency response.
Perani was pronounced dead at the scene by the Athens County Coroner’s Office. The driver of the pickup truck, whose identity has not yet been released, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment. Authorities noted that both drivers were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash and that alcohol is not suspected to have played a role in the incident.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. No additional details have been released at this time.
Our hearts go out to the family of Monica Leigh Perani and to all those affected by this tragic event.
Head-On Collisions in Ohio
Head-on crashes like the one reported in Athens Township often carry devastating consequences. In this case, the impact was fatal for one driver and left another recovering from injuries—underscoring the severity these types of accidents can inflict. State Route 682, a commonly traveled corridor in Athens County, serves as a critical connector for many residents. However, its winding lanes and rural segments can increase the risk of lane deviation crashes, particularly in early morning hours when visibility may be limited.
Ohio has seen a troubling trend in fatal head-on collisions over the past several years. These accidents frequently stem from drivers crossing the center line—either due to distraction, fatigue, or misjudgment on rural highways. In this incident, the pickup truck’s failure to maintain lane position resulted in irreversible consequences. While authorities have ruled out alcohol as a factor, ongoing investigations will help determine if speed, distraction, or other conditions contributed.
For local communities, crashes like this one raise broader concerns around road safety and infrastructure. SR-682 has long been a topic of safety evaluations due to its varied topography and mixed traffic volumes. Local transportation agencies may use findings from this investigation to reassess current safety measures along the route, such as improved signage, rumble strips, or centerline barriers.
For those involved, the aftermath of a serious crash brings immediate emotional, medical, and legal challenges. Families dealing with the loss of a loved one—such as the Perani family—often face not only grief but also questions about accountability, insurance claims, and long-term support. In situations where the at-fault driver survives, future legal proceedings may arise depending on the outcomes of the crash report.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a serious accident in Athens County, it is essential to seek professional help—both for medical recovery and for understanding your legal rights.
If someone you care about has been injured or lost their life in a collision, Local Accident Reports can help you stay informed and supported. We provide timely, detailed updates on serious crashes happening in your area. Our goal is to connect you with the resources you need—whether it’s finding medical care, understanding legal options, or accessing emotional support. Take the first step toward informed recovery—contact us today to learn how we can assist you.
