HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP, Ohio - A serious two-vehicle crash on State Route 608 southbound resulted in the death of a young boy and left at least six people injured, according to a statement from the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP).

The incident took place on Sunday afternoon, authorities were first alerted to the crash near Route 6 in the Geauga County area at approximately 1:30 p.m. Responding troopers discovered that a 39-year-old woman was operating a Chevrolet SUV with five passengers when the vehicle veered off the road. In an attempt to correct her course, she ended up crossing the center lane and colliding with a Kia SUV traveling northbound.

The impact caused the Kia, driven by a 44-year-old woman, to veer off the side of the road. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and the driver was transported to the UH Geauga Medical Center for medical treatment. Reports indicate that she was wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash.

The occupants of the Chevrolet SUV, totaling six individuals, were also taken to UH Geauga Medical Center for their injuries. Tragically, a 9-year-old boy among them was pronounced dead. OSHP confirmed that the remaining individuals injured in the crash are currently receiving medical care for non-life-threatening but serious injuries.

Authorities are now conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. It is unclear at this time what may have caused the driver of the Chevrolet SUV to lose control of the vehicle and veer off the road.

As the community mourns the loss of the young boy and prays for the swift recovery of the injured, this tragic accident serves as a reminder for all drivers to remain vigilant on the roads and prioritize their safety and the safety of others.