Moving Tributes Pour in for Dave Kennat, High School Teacher Killed in I-70 Bus Crash

Accident – Death – Obituary News : NEW PHILADELPHIA, OHIO: Heartfelt condolences have been pouring in for Dave Kennat, a beloved 56-year-old high school teacher who tragically lost his life in the devastating I-70 bus crash that claimed the lives of six people and left another 18 seriously injured.

The multiple-vehicle collision occurred in Etna Township along state Route 310, shortly before 9 am on Tuesday, November 14. The impact of the crash caused at least three vehicles to catch fire, creating a scene of chaos and devastation.

According to a news release from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, all five vehicles involved in the crash—a charter bus, two commercial vehicles, and two passenger automobiles—were heading west on I-70 when the chain-reaction crash occurred. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) chair Jennifer Homendy revealed at a news conference on Wednesday that the second passenger car was crushed between the bus and the commercial vehicle that rear-ended it.

Tragically, six people lost their lives at the scene of the crash, including three teenagers who were traveling on the charter bus. The bus was carrying 54 students and chaperones from Tuscarawas Valley Local Schools. The three teens who lost their lives have been identified as John W Mosely, 18, Katelyn N Owens, 15, of Mineral City, and Jeffery D Worrell, 18, of Bolivar. Superintendent Dr. Derek Varansky stated that the students were on their way to perform at the Ohio School Boards Association conference.

In addition to the three teenagers, Dave Kennat, 56, of Navarre; Kristy Gaynor, 39, of Zoar; and Shannon Wigfield, 45, of Bolivar also lost their lives in the crash. These three individuals were in the passenger car that was sandwiched between the bus and the semi-truck.

Following the crash, a total of 15 students and the bus driver were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention. Other students who escaped physical injury were taken to a reunification site, as reported by AP news.

Dave Kennat, a dedicated teacher at Tuscarawas Valley High School, was mourned by many in the community. With 31 years of experience, Kennat had impacted the lives of countless students during his teaching career. Former student Mindi Lieser-Sherlin paid tribute to him on Facebook, calling him “awesome” and expressing her heartbreak over the tragic accident. She urged everyone to continue praying for the affected families, friends, staff, first responders, and hospital personnel, acknowledging the profound impact the incident had on the community.

Another tribute came from the Wanake Camp & Retreat Center, which described Kennat as a friend, faithful alumnus, volunteer, master gardener, and strong supporter. The camp fondly remembered his enthusiasm for ministry, people, and fun, which was contagious to all those around him. Kennat dedicated his time to nurturing the unique wildflowers at the camp’s gardens and often led hikes and engaging activities for campers and staff.

The Wanake Family expressed their gratitude for Kennat’s life, grieved his untimely death, and found solace in the hope of his eternal life in Jesus.

This tragic accident has left the community devastated, and the loss of Dave Kennat and the other victims will be deeply felt. As investigations continue into the causes of the crash, the focus remains on supporting the families affected and ensuring the safety of all travelers on Ohio’s roads.

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