Charges Filed Following Early-Morning Collision

Authorities in Dublin, Ohio, have charged **Kirk Barton**, former Ohio State offensive lineman and NFL player, with one count of aggravated vehicular homicide after a crash early Saturday morning resulted in the death of a 24-year-old driver :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. The collision occurred at approximately 2:56 a.m. at the intersection of West Bridge and High Streets, involving Barton’s Ford F-150 Raptor and a Lexus.

Victim Identified as Ethan Perry

The driver of the Lexus has been identified as Ethan Wence Perry, 24, who died at the scene, according to local police :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. Dublin authorities confirmed Barton was traveling at a high rate of speed on U.S. 33/Ohio 161 before entering the city via High Street, leading to the tragic crash :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

Barton’s Injuries, Arrest, and Background

Barton, 40, was treated at Riverside Methodist Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries and then taken into custody at Franklin County Jail :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}. He played right tackle for Ohio State from 2003 to 2007, earning All-American honors in 2007 before being drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2008 :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

This is not Barton’s first run-in with the law. In 2018, he faced felony assault charges involving an incident with a police officer :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.

Legal Consequences and Next Steps

Barton faces a second-degree felony, which carries significant potential penalties, including prolonged time behind bars if convicted :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}. Court documents show he is scheduled for arraignment Monday morning in Franklin County Municipal Court :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

Meanwhile, traffic closures affected West Bridge Street and North High Street following the crash—they reopened around 10:15 a.m. that day :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.

Community and Ohio State Circle Responses

Local roads have reopened, and police continue to gather evidence as the investigation unfolds :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}. The broader Ohio State community is reacting with shock, especially amid reminders of Barton’s previous contributions to the Buckeyes’ football legacy :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

Buckeye Scoop, which Barton co-founded, released a statement saying, “We are heartbroken for the victim and their loved ones … gathering information and will have more to say when appropriate” :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.

Implications Moving Forward

If convicted, Barton could face prison time and severely restricted driving privileges. The case will likely draw public scrutiny not only because of Barton’s high-profile past but also due to concerns about speed limits and road safety :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.

The family of Ethan Perry is awaiting further details as law enforcement continues toxicology reports and accident reconstruction studies. Both sides could pursue legal action beyond the criminal court case.

Conclusion: A Tragic Collision with Far-Reaching Impact

The crash involving Kirk Barton and the death of Ethan Perry marks a tragic intersection between athletic fame and a devastating collision. As court proceedings advance, both the Dublin community and the broader Ohio State family await answers on accountability and justice.

Stay tuned as we monitor updates on the investigation, legal proceedings, and any broader implications this case may have for road safety policies.