Perry County high school student killed in ATV crash

VICCO, Ky. (WKYT) - A Perry County Central High School student died after an ATV crash Saturday evening.

The Perry County Sheriff’s Department and her family says Emilynn Clark, 16, died in the crash. She was a passenger on the ATV.

The Perry County Sheriff’s office posted about the incident on Facebook, saying it happened on Oakwood Avenue in Vicco.

In a statement, Perry County Sheriff Joe Engle said the crash happened around 9 p.m.

Engle says the vehicle went off the road and over an embankment.

Two adult men were also passengers. One was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

“We do believe alcohol to be a factor in this,” Engle said.

The driver was another 16 year old girl. Police say she’s been charged with a DUI. Because she’s a minor, her name has not been released.

“[Clark] was best friends with the other girl that survived, so there’s a lot of people dealing with a lot of emotions and heartbreak right now,” Engle said.

“There’s also charges pending on the adults, the other two males [were] adults, we’re still investigating.”

Sheriff Engle says deputies are currently reviewing surveillance video at a local business to find out who purchased the alcohol.

He also says future charges could include vehicular homicide or manslaughter.

The sheriff’s office says they will consult with their local Commonwealth’s attorney about additional charges.

“Let him kind of guide us [on] what to present to the grand jury,” Engle said.

In the meantime, Sheriff Engle is asking the public for patience.

“Patience and to ease off and let these families deal with what’s going on right now. And we’re gonna do our job and we’re gonna make sure it’s done right,” he said.

Sheriff Engle says the investigation is open and ongoing. A blood sample from the scene is being tested. The owner of the ATV has been identified as Noah Back of Vicco.

Perry County Central High School has also issued a statement, saying that counselors will be on hand for students and staff on Monday.

The family has started a GoFundMe for funeral expenses for Emilynn.