Newlyweds Honored by Ashland Post After Seat Belts Protect Them in Honeymoon Crash
ASHLAND COUNTY, Ohio — A Carrollton couple returning home from their honeymoon walked away with minor injuries after their car struck a utility pole and rolled over in Ashland County. Now, the Ohio State Highway Patrol has recognized them with “Saved by the Belt” awards.
Sgt. Daniel Kumor of the patrol’s Ashland Post presented the awards to Michael and Bryanna Barnes on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026. Both were wearing seat belts when the crash occurred on May 18.
According to Kumor, the couple had just married in May and were returning from their honeymoon when the single-vehicle crash happened at approximately 9:20 a.m. on State Route 179 in Lake Township.
Michael was driving a 2016 Volkswagen Passat southbound when the car traveled off the right side of the road, striking a utility pole and a ditch. After hitting the ditch, the vehicle rolled over and came to rest on its top.
Both Michael and Bryanna sustained minor injuries, Kumor said. Their awards recognize the role their seat belts played in protecting them during the crash.
