Tragic Loss in Grand Rapids: Otsego Community Mourns Deaths of Jack Rowland and Brayden Sadler in Head-On Crash
GRAND RAPIDS, Ohio — An overwhelming sense of sorrow has descended upon the Otsego Local Schools community following the heartbreaking loss of two young lives. Jack Rowland and Brayden Sadler, both 18 and recent graduates of Otsego High School’s Class of 2025, were tragically killed in a head-on off-road vehicle crash just hours after celebrating one of life’s biggest milestones.
The fatal collision occurred just after midnight on Saturday, May 24, along a stretch of Henry–Lucas County Road near South River Road in Providence Township. According to a report from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, both teens were operating off-road vehicles in opposite directions when they collided head-on. The vehicles involved were not street-legal, and tragically, neither Jack nor Brayden was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Authorities also suspect alcohol may have been a contributing factor in the incident.
Despite the tragic circumstances, the immediate focus within the Otsego community has shifted away from the crash details and toward mourning the sudden, devastating loss of two young men whose futures had just begun.
“They were beloved members of our senior class and our Otsego family,” wrote Superintendent Kevin O’Shea in a heartfelt letter to families on Saturday. “Their loss is profound.”
Just Two Days After Graduation
The weight of the tragedy is amplified by the timing — Jack and Brayden had just graduated from Otsego High School on Thursday, celebrating the end of one chapter and looking ahead to the next. Their graduation caps had barely settled when the community was plunged into grief.
Teachers, classmates, and families are now grappling with the unthinkable: planning memorials instead of parties, writing condolences instead of congratulations.
“These were bright, spirited young men full of potential and promise,” shared one teacher who had worked closely with both boys. “They were kind, they were funny, and they left a lasting impression on everyone who knew them.”
A Community Comes Together
Superintendent O’Shea emphasized that the district is mobilizing support for students and staff. Grief counselors and mental health professionals will be available starting Tuesday at the school, offering a safe space for students to talk, process, and mourn.
“Otsego is a tight-knit and caring community,” O’Shea noted. “In times like these, we lean on each other. We will stand together to support Jack and Brayden’s families and friends and find ways in the days ahead to honor their memory.”
Parents are also being encouraged to have open and honest conversations with their children about grief, loss, and safety, and to take advantage of the resources the district is making available.
Remembering Jack and Brayden
While the investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol is ongoing, and the circumstances surrounding the crash remain under scrutiny, the legacy of Jack Rowland and Brayden Sadler is already being honored through shared memories, candlelight vigils, and social media tributes.
Classmates have flooded online platforms with pictures, memories, and heartfelt messages:
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“You guys were the heart of our class. I still can’t believe this.”
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“Jack had the biggest smile and Brayden always had our backs.”
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“I’m so lucky to have called you my friends. You’ll never be forgotten.”
Looking Ahead
In the coming days, memorial services and tributes will be planned to celebrate the lives of two young men whose time was tragically cut short. The district and broader community have pledged to continue offering support — not just in the immediate aftermath but for as long as it’s needed.
As Superintendent O’Shea wrote, “Let us all take extra time to offer kindness and grace to those around us.”
The Otsego Local Schools community mourns together, remembers together, and will heal — together.
Anyone with additional information about the crash is asked to contact the Ohio State Highway Patrol. They were assisted at the scene by the Lucas County Sheriff’s Office, and the investigation remains active.
