The tragic crash involved two young lives lost on May 20, 2023, at the intersection of Ohio 48 and Lytle-Five Points Road. Michael Todd Barch Jr., aged 20, from Clearcreek Township, and Karys Rose Seipel, aged 19, from Springboro, were the victims. Barch, a 2021 graduate of Springboro, had completed his second year at Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee. Seipel, a 2022 Springboro graduate, had just finished her freshman year at Miami University in Oxford.
The incident occurred when a 2022 Kia Telluride, driven by Huelsman at a speed of 107 mph, ran a red light and collided with a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu driven by Barch, who was traveling west on Lytle-Five Points Road. The force of the impact caused both vehicles to veer off the road, with the Malibu being pushed 250 feet into a telephone pole, subsequently catching fire. This information was reported by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Tragically, Barch and Seipel were pronounced dead at the scene.
The case was overseen by the Warren County Prosecutor’s Office. Prosecutor David Fornshell emphasized the emotional impact of the loss, especially as a parent of similarly aged children. He expressed frustration over the reckless decision made by Huelsman that led to the loss of two young individuals with promising futures. The defense’s claim of insanity was rejected by Judge Tepe, leading to Huelsman’s conviction.
Following the crash, Huelsman sustained serious injuries and was transported to Kettering Health Main Campus for medical attention.
Plans are in place to construct a single-lane roundabout at the intersection where the crash occurred, with construction set for 2028 at an estimated cost of $3.66 million. Studies by the Federal Highway Administration indicate that replacing intersections with roundabouts can reduce overall crashes by 48% and serious injury and fatal crashes by nearly 80%.
The Bottom Line
The tragic accident underscores the significance of road safety and the potential consequences of reckless driving. The loss of two young lives serves as a stark reminder of the impact such incidents can have on families and communities. The planned construction of a roundabout at the intersection is a proactive measure aimed at reducing future accidents and enhancing safety.
For residents of Springboro and surrounding areas, the upcoming infrastructure changes reflect a commitment to improving road safety. The reduction in accident rates associated with roundabouts could help prevent similar tragedies and contribute to a safer community.