Bellville Police Officer Killed in Tragic Crash

Joe Lyons • February 3, 2025

Bellville Police Officer Killed in Tragic Crash

Bellville, Ohio – The Bellville Police Department is mourning the loss of one of its own after Officer Summer Kennard was killed in a tragic vehicle crash early Monday morning.

In a statement posted to social media, the department shared the heartbreaking news, saying, “It is with great sadness to inform you that the Bellville Police Department lost an outstanding officer. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Officer Kennard’s family and friends.”

The fatal crash occurred on February 3, 2025, at approximately 5:32 AM on U.S. Route 42 in Gilead Township, Morrow County, according to a report from the Morrow County Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Kennard, 20, of Cardington, was driving eastbound in a 2010 Toyota RAV4 when she veered off the right side of the road. She then overcorrected, crossing left of center, and was struck by a 2013 Ford F-150 driven by 63-year-old Ricky Smalley of Galion.

Emergency responders transported Kennard to Morrow County Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries. Smalley was also taken to the hospital but sustained only minor injuries. Both drivers were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash, and authorities do not believe alcohol or drugs were factors.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol, along with the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office, Morrow County EMS, and the Cardington Fire Department, responded to the scene. The crash remains under investigation.

Kennard, who dedicated herself to serving the Bellville community, is being remembered as a devoted officer and a beloved friend.