Perry Township, OH (May 17, 2026) – Two people were killed, and a juvenile was seriously injured, on Saturday morning, May 16, following a head-on collision on State Route 62 near milepost 11 in Perry Township.
The Canton Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol reported that troopers responded at approximately 7:16 a.m. to the crash scene. Investigators determined the collision involved a 2019 Ford Ranger driven by 21-year-old Cole Scholey of Beach City and a Honda Odyssey driven by 56-year-old Kelly Kemp of Massillon.
According to preliminary findings, Scholey was traveling northbound when he moved left of center and struck Kemp’s vehicle head-on. Both drivers were found unresponsive upon the arrival of emergency crews. Kemp was pronounced deceased at the scene, while Scholey was transported to Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
A juvenile passenger traveling in Kemp’s vehicle was also injured and transported to Aultman Hospital with serious injuries. Authorities noted that neither driver was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
The southbound lanes of Route 62 were closed for approximately three and a half hours while investigators processed the scene. Assistance was provided by multiple fire and police departments.
Officials said speed is suspected as a contributing factor, though the investigation remains ongoing.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by this devastating crash.
What Factors Are Commonly Examined in Head-On Rural Highway Crashes?
Head-on collisions on rural highways are often analyzed by reviewing lane position, speed, and driver behavior leading up to the impact. Even a brief crossing of the center line can result in severe or fatal outcomes due to limited reaction time at highway speeds.
Investigators typically examine roadway markings, vehicle damage, and debris distribution to determine how the crash occurred. Seat belt use and occupant positioning are also reviewed as part of injury assessments.
In cases involving multiple victims, emergency response timelines and hospital transport records may also help establish the severity of the collision. These combined details assist investigators in reconstructing the sequence of events.
