The Marion Township community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Avante Weldon, a 16-year-old whose life was tragically cut short in a two-vehicle crash on Likens-Chapel Road late Saturday night. His sudden passing has left family members, friends, classmates, and neighbors grieving the loss of a young life filled with promise.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP), the fatal collision occurred at approximately 10:42 p.m. on Likens-Chapel Road near Fairground Road in Marion County. Preliminary findings indicate that a Mercedes-Benz was parked facing northbound on the roadway when it was struck from behind by a Ford Ranger driven by Timothy Best, 66, of Marion.
Investigators said Avante Weldon was standing behind the parked Mercedes-Benz when the collision occurred. The impact caused him to suffer critical injuries. Emergency responders from Marion City Fire and EMS arrived quickly and transported him to Marion General Hospital, where medical personnel worked tirelessly to save his life. Despite those efforts, Avante later succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities reported that Sandra Sayre, 46, of Marion, who owned the Mercedes-Benz, was inside the vehicle when it was struck. Two 14-year-old passengers were also inside the vehicle. Sayre and both juveniles sustained minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment. Timothy Best also suffered minor injuries and was taken to the hospital.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Marion City Police Department, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Marion Township EMS, Marion City Fire and EMS, and Kirby’s Towing. Investigators remained at the crash site for several hours documenting evidence and reconstructing the events leading up to the collision.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Authorities have not announced whether speed, impairment, distraction, or any other contributing factors played a role. Investigators continue to gather evidence and are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
News of Avante Weldon’s death has prompted an overwhelming outpouring of grief throughout the Marion community. Friends, classmates, and community members have shared heartfelt tributes, remembering him as a kind, caring, and bright young man whose smile and presence brought joy to those around him. Many have expressed their condolences to the Weldon family while offering prayers and support during this unimaginable time.
The loss of a teenager is a tragedy that resonates throughout an entire community. As family and friends mourn Avante’s passing, they also celebrate the memories he created and the impact he made during his 16 years of life.
Funeral and memorial service arrangements have not yet been announced by the Weldon family.
Though his life ended far too soon, Avante Weldon will be lovingly remembered by his family, friends, classmates, and everyone whose lives he touched. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.