Tragic Collision Claims Lives of Local Teen and Two Others

SLIGO, Pa. — A tragic head-on collision on Saturday afternoon claimed the lives of three individuals, including two local teenagers, on Route 68 near Sligo Auto Salvage. The incident occurred around 3:10 p.m. on March 22, 2025, also marking a somber loss for the Cadogan community.

The victims were identified as Landon Akins, 16, of Cadogan; Cambrie Priester, 16, of Rimersburg; and Christopher McNutt, 55, of Sligo. According to Clarion County Coroner Dan Shingledecker, all three died from blunt force trauma, and their lives were tragically cut short in the collision. Emergency responders, including the Sligo Volunteer Fire Department and local ambulance services, arrived at the scene shortly after the accident, but all three were pronounced dead on site.

Route 68 was closed to traffic for several hours to facilitate an investigation by the Clarion-based State Police. Union School District Superintendent Dr. John Kimmel acknowledged the loss in a public statement, revealing that Akins and Priester were both students within the district. He emphasized the district’s commitment to supporting grieving students and families, announcing the availability of counselors and clergy members for those seeking assistance.

Landon Akins is remembered as a beloved son and friend, who was born on August 4, 2008, in Kittanning. He attended Armstrong Jr./Sr. High School and had planned to further his education at Lenape Tech in welding, aiming to create a promising future for himself. Known for his zest for life, Landon enjoyed dirt biking, racing, fishing, hunting, and camping, and cherished moments spent with family and friends around bonfires.

His mother, Leighann (Greg) Berry, and the late Barry Alan Akins, Jr., mourn the loss of their son, who is survived by numerous family members, including siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and lasting friendships. His family stated, “Landon had an absolute zest for life, always sharing his love with the multitude of friends he made during his brief 16 years.”

Visitation services for Landon Akins will be held on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Mantini Funeral Home in Ford City. The funeral service will take place the following day at 11 a.m., with Pastor Lee Rupert officiating. A community wake will follow at the Burrell Township Firehall to celebrate his life.

The emotional impact of the accident reverberates through both the local community and the Union School District, highlighting the fragility of life and the importance of seeking support during such tragic times.