20-Year-Old Richland County Police Officer Summer Kennard Dies in Tragic Crash in Morrow County on Monday Morning

The life of 20-year-old Summer Kennard, a dedicated and hardworking part-time police officer with the Bellville Police Department, tragically came to an end on Monday morning, February 3, 2025, when she was involved in a devastating crash on U.S. Route 42 near mile post 10 in Gilead Township, Morrow County. Summer was a rising star in law enforcement, remembered by her family, friends, and colleagues for her commitment to her community and her passion for serving others. This heartbreaking accident has left a community in mourning and a department without one of its own.

The crash occurred at approximately 5:32 a.m. on U.S. Route 42, where state troopers reported that the driver of a 2010 Toyota RAV4, identified as Summer Kennard, was traveling eastbound. According to the investigation, Kennard’s vehicle “drove off the right side of the roadway, overcorrected, and traveled left of center,” setting the stage for the tragic collision. In the westbound lane, a 2013 Ford F-150, driven by a 63-year-old man from Galion, collided with the Toyota. The impact of the crash was devastating for Kennard, and despite being rushed to Morrow County Hospital, she ultimately succumbed to her injuries.

As tributes pour in for Summer Kennard, she is being remembered not only for her bravery in uniform but also for the kindness she exhibited off-duty. She had joined the Bellville Police Department as a part-time officer in 2024, a position she was deeply passionate about, with aspirations to make a meaningful difference in her community. Her loss is felt deeply by all who knew her, as she had just started her career in law enforcement and had so much potential to impact the world around her.

Her sudden and untimely passing has left many devastated, and the community is struggling to come to terms with the loss of such a promising young woman. At the time of the accident, the Ford driver, a 63-year-old man from Galion, was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. Authorities continue to investigate the crash to determine the full details surrounding the collision. While it remains a point of sorrow, the community is also coming together to support Summer’s family, friends, and fellow officers during this incredibly difficult time.

Summer Kennard: A Rising Star in Law Enforcement

Summer Kennard was a bright and promising young woman who had set her sights on a career in law enforcement at a very young age. Born and raised in Cardington, Ohio, Summer had always been passionate about helping others. Her desire to serve her community led her to pursue a career in law enforcement, where she quickly became known for her strong work ethic and compassionate demeanor.

Before her tragic passing, Summer was making a name for herself in the Bellville Police Department, having joined as a part-time officer in 2024. Despite her relatively short time in the department, she had already earned the respect of her colleagues and the community. Officers within the department described her as dedicated, professional, and a true team player. Her commitment to public service and her natural ability to connect with people made her a valuable asset to the department.

In addition to her law enforcement career, Summer was deeply involved in her local community. She often volunteered at community events, helping to organize charity drives and participating in various outreach programs designed to strengthen the bond between law enforcement and the people they serve. She was also known for her caring nature and willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need.

Summer’s untimely death has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her. Her family, friends, and colleagues remember her as someone who would always go the extra mile to ensure the safety and well-being of others. Her dedication to her job and her community made her a beloved figure, and her passing is a tragic reminder of the unpredictable and fragile nature of life.

The Accident: A Tragic Collision

The crash that claimed the life of Summer Kennard occurred early Monday morning, around 5:32 a.m. on U.S. Route 42 near mile post 10 in Gilead Township. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Summer was driving eastbound on U.S. Route 42 in a 2010 Toyota RAV4. For reasons still under investigation, Summer’s vehicle drove off the right side of the roadway, overcorrected, and then traveled left of center, where it collided with a westbound 2013 Ford F-150.

The collision was severe, and the impact of the crash left Summer with critical injuries. She was immediately transported to Morrow County Hospital, but despite the best efforts of medical personnel, she tragically succumbed to her injuries. The driver of the Ford F-150, a 63-year-old man from Galion, was also taken to the hospital with minor injuries, though his identity has not been disclosed by authorities.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the crash. While the investigation is still ongoing, early reports suggest that weather conditions may have played a role in the incident. It remains unclear whether alcohol or speed were contributing factors, though authorities have not ruled out any possibilities. The crash has left a lasting impact on the community, and many are grappling with the loss of a young woman who had so much to offer.

Bellville Police Department Mourns the Loss of a Beloved Officer

Summer Kennard’s death has struck a deep chord with the Bellville Police Department. Chief Greg Bishop of the Bellville Police Department expressed his heartbreak upon hearing the news of her passing, describing Summer as a “rising star” in law enforcement. “Summer was a dedicated officer who was passionate about helping others and making a difference in our community. Her loss is immeasurable, and we are heartbroken for her family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” Chief Bishop said in a statement.

The Bellville Police Department has been overwhelmed with tributes from both fellow officers and members of the community. Summer’s colleagues in the department describe her as someone who always went above and beyond the call of duty, never hesitating to put the needs of others first. They remember her as a hard-working, friendly, and compassionate individual who brightened the office every day with her presence.

As the investigation into the crash continues, the Bellville Police Department has offered their full support to the Kennard family. They have pledged to provide assistance to Summer’s loved ones during this difficult time, and many department members are planning to attend memorial services in honor of their fallen colleague.

Community Pays Tribute to a Hero

In the wake of Summer Kennard’s death, members of the local community have come together to mourn her loss. Friends, family, and neighbors have shared heartfelt messages of support for her family, expressing their grief at the untimely passing of such a vibrant young woman. Many in the community have organized fundraisers to assist the Kennard family with funeral expenses, and others have left flowers, cards, and personal messages at the Bellville Police Department.

Local residents have also taken to social media to pay tribute to Summer, sharing stories of how she touched their lives. Many have described her as a kind and caring individual who always went out of her way to help others, whether it was offering a listening ear or providing assistance during difficult times. Her impact on the Bellville community was far-reaching, and her loss will be felt for years to come.

In a touching tribute, several residents posted photos of Summer at community events, sharing memories of her involvement in local charity drives and police-community outreach initiatives. Summer’s spirit of service and dedication to others continues to resonate with those who knew her, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to cross her path.

The Tragic Loss of a Bright Future

The loss of Summer Kennard is a devastating reminder of the fragility of life. At just 20 years old, Summer had her entire future ahead of her. She had already accomplished so much in such a short time, and her potential as a police officer was limitless. Her death is not only a loss to her family and friends but also to the broader law enforcement community, which has lost a promising young officer with a bright future.

Summer’s dedication to her work, her community, and her family will continue to inspire those who knew her. Though her life was tragically cut short, her legacy will live on in the lives she touched and the difference she made in the world around her. She was more than just a police officer—she was a friend, a sister, a daughter, and a hero. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Conclusion: Honoring Summer Kennard’s Legacy

As we remember Summer Kennard, we celebrate her life and the impact she had on her community. She was a young woman with an unwavering commitment to service, a passion for helping others, and a bright future ahead of her. Her sudden and tragic death has left a profound mark on the Bellville Police Department, her family, and the community she loved.

While her time with us was far too short, Summer’s spirit of service and dedication will never be forgotten. As we mourn her loss, we also honor her legacy—a legacy of selflessness, courage, and compassion. Our thoughts and prayers are with Summer’s family, friends, and colleagues as they navigate this painful time of grief and remembrance.

Summer Kennard may no longer be with us, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Rest in peace, Officer Kennard. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.