Former Ohio State standout Kirk Barton, a linchpin of the Buckeyes' offensive line and an All-American in 2007, is facing a significant prison sentence following a tragic incident.
Barton has been sentenced to a term ranging from five to seven and a half years after pleading guilty to aggravated vehicular homicide, a serious charge stemming from a fatal accident in June 2025. This unfortunate event has left a lasting impact on the community and the families involved.
The details of the crash paint a grim picture. Barton, driving his Ford F-150 Raptor, initially headed the wrong way on U.S.
Route 33. After turning around, he reportedly accelerated to dangerous speeds.
His vehicle collided with a Lexus IS 250, driven by 24-year-old Ethan Perry, who tragically lost his life at the scene.
Authorities noted that Barton admitted to consuming alcohol prior to the crash, a factor that undoubtedly played a role in the severity of the incident and the subsequent legal consequences.
Reflecting on Barton's past, he was a vital part of the Ohio State team from 2003 to 2007, earning All-Big Ten honors twice and achieving All-American status. His tenure with the Buckeyes saw them reach the national championship game twice, though they fell short against Florida and LSU.
Following his college career, Barton was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the seventh round of the 2008 NFL Draft, spending three years in the league. His journey from collegiate success to professional football had its highs, but this recent chapter serves as a sobering reminder of the responsibilities that come with public life and the serious repercussions of impaired driving.