The South Point and Ironton communities are in mourning after a devastating all-terrain vehicle (ATV) accident claimed the lives of two elementary school students over the weekend.
According to the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred in the Fayette Township area when two juveniles lost control of an ATV. The vehicle struck a bench and a parked car. Both boys were transported to Cabell Huntington Hospital, where they later died from their injuries. The Ohio State Highway Patrol assisted at the scene.
In a brief statement, the sheriff’s office said, “Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic incident.”
Remembering Keenan and Cole
One of the victims has been identified as #13 Keenan Honeycutt, a Burlington Elementary student who played on Ironton’s third-grade tackle football team. The other victim was Cole Daniel, a South Point Elementary student.
The Ironton Youth Football League (IYFL) released an emotional statement following the tragedy:
“Today, the South Point Community and Ironton Youth Football Community experienced a tragic loss of life.
#13 Keenan Honeycutt was one of two young men involved. Both children died tragically in a horrific accident. We are devastated and heartbroken as a league and as a community.
Keenan had an ALL IN attitude and was an amazing athlete. He had a very bright future ahead of him on the football field and helped his team make it all the way to the Championship Game during playoffs.”
The league asked that the public respect the families’ privacy while encouraging donations or participation in upcoming fundraisers to help the families of both boys.
“If any Ironton Youth Football Player needs help coping with this situation, we encourage you to visit your guidance counselors at school,” the statement continued. “Please keep both families in your prayers. Rest in Peace #13. We love you.”
One neighbor shared on social media,
“That was my son’s best friend! He basically lived at my house when he was at his grandma’s. I probably still have some of his clothes here because he’d just take his shirt and socks off and leave them. We’re gonna miss you, little man. We love you!”
Schools Offer Time to Grieve
South Point Local Schools also issued a message of condolence, noting that the loss deeply affected students and staff across the district.
“Our hearts go out to their families, classmates, and everyone affected by this tragedy,” the district said. “To give our school community the time and space to grieve and support one another, we will be rescheduling all parent-teacher conferences to Tuesday, November 25th.”
Counselors will be made available to students in need of emotional support.
A Town United in Heartbreak
Residents described the loss as “unimaginable.” In a close-knit area where many families are connected through school, sports, and church, the deaths of two children ripple far beyond their immediate families.
Local churches and community groups are already organizing candlelight vigils and fundraisers to help both families with funeral costs.
“This is one of those moments that just stops you,” said one Ironton resident. “Everyone’s heart is broken. You hug your kids tighter and pray for the parents who can’t.”
The Alarming Truth About ATV Accidents and Kids
As the community grieves, the tragedy also draws attention to the ongoing dangers of ATV use among children and teens.
A Nationwide Children’s Hospital study found that approximately 31 children and teens are treated for nonfatal ATV-related injuries every single day in the U.S.
- One-third of all national ATV injuries involve children under age 16.
- Ohio ranks 15th in the nation for ATV accidents, and a significant number of those injured are minors.
Experts say many of these incidents could be prevented with stronger safety measures and better public awareness.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and ATV Safety Institute offer the following guidelines:
✅ Children under 16 should never ride adult-sized ATVs. They lack the size, strength, and judgment to safely control them.
✅ Always wear a helmet, goggles, gloves, long sleeves, and sturdy boots.
✅ No passengers unless the ATV is specifically designed for more than one rider.
✅ Keep ATVs off paved roads and away from obstacles like trees, fences, or parked vehicles.
✅ Enroll in a certified ATV safety training course—many are free or low-cost.
Organizations such as 4-H ATV Safety, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and local Extension Offices offer training programs aimed at both youth and parents.
