ATHENS, Ohio — Ohio University is mourning the death of two students who were killed during a crash in Athens on Sunday morning.
The crash was first reported by a passerby at 8:33 a.m. on Sunday.
The students, identified as Laiken Nicole Salyers, 23, of Wheelersburg, Ohio, and Richard R. Turner, 20, of East Orange, New Jersey, were traveling eastbound in a 2013 Chevy Cruze on Dairy Lane near the intersection of South Park Drive in Athens, according to the Athens Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The vehicle failed to maneuver a curve, causing it to lose control on the ice-covered roadway, troopers said.
The vehicle slid off the left side of the road and overturned onto its top in a creek, becoming partially submerged.
Carly Leatherwood, senior director of communications services, released the following statement on behalf of Ohio University:
"It is with great sadness that we confirm Laiken Salyers, a fourth-year student in Ohio University’s College of Health Sciences and Professions and Richard Turner, a second-year student in Ohio University’s University College, have passed away as the result of a tragic accident. Our hearts go out to their families during the difficult time. The Dean of Students has been in contact with their families, and the University is providing support to students and employees affected by this loss."
Anyone with information regarding the crash is asked to contact the Athens Patrol Post at 740-593-6611.
The crash remains under investigation.
