Mount Sterling, OH — June 19, 2025: Single-Vehicle Crash on State Route 753 Claims Life of 17-Year-Old Marcus Bentley
Mount Sterling, OH — What began as an ordinary Thursday afternoon in Mount Sterling ended in unimaginable heartbreak for the communities of Fayette County. At around 4:45 p.m. on June 19, 2025, emergency crews were called to the scene of a serious single-vehicle accident along State Route 753, just beyond the southern boundary of Mount Sterling. Upon arrival, responders were met with a tragic sight—debris scattered across the road, a badly damaged vehicle resting in a nearby field, and the devastating confirmation that a young life had been lost.
The victim was identified as Marcus Bentley, a 17-year-old student at Washington High School and a soon-to-be senior. Preliminary findings from the Ohio State Highway Patrol indicate that Marcus was traveling southbound in a silver Chevrolet Silverado when, for unknown reasons, the vehicle drifted off the right side of the roadway. It struck a culvert, became airborne, and overturned several times before coming to a stop.
Despite the rapid response by first responders, Marcus was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities continue to investigate the crash, with questions still lingering about whether speed, mechanical malfunction, or a medical condition may have played a role. Toxicology tests are pending, and investigators noted there are no signs of criminal activity. Marcus was reportedly wearing a seatbelt.
The tragic loss of Marcus Bentley has shaken Washington Court House and the surrounding area. Remembered for his warm smile, sense of humor, and compassionate nature, Marcus had a way of making people feel seen and valued. His love for sports—especially football and track—was matched only by his dream of becoming an automotive technician.
“Marcus lit up every room he entered,” said Laura Greer, one of his teachers. “He was clever, respectful, and had such a bright future. The impact of this loss is something we’re all still trying to comprehend.”
In the hours following the accident, classmates, teammates, and friends gathered at the high school football field to honor Marcus’s memory. A makeshift memorial formed at the 50-yard line, adorned with candles, flowers, handwritten notes, and jerseys bearing his number. One teammate, Elijah Moore, reflected on the bond they shared: “Marcus was like a brother to me. He gave everything on the field, but it was his off-the-field kindness that made him unforgettable.”
Marcus is survived by his parents, Daniel and Michelle Bentley; his younger sister, 13-year-old Ava; and grandparents who played a significant role in his upbringing. The family released a heartfelt statement following the tragedy:
“Words can’t express the sorrow we’re feeling. Marcus was the heart of our family—full of energy, laughter, and love. We’re grateful for the outpouring of support and kindness. Please keep us in your prayers as we begin to process this unimaginable loss.”
Washington Court House City Schools have activated grief counseling services for students and faculty coping with Marcus’s passing. Principal Darren Holt encouraged families to support one another and announced plans for a school-wide remembrance event in the near future.
Outside of school, Marcus worked part-time at a local auto repair shop, where his curiosity and dedication quickly earned him respect. Shop manager Paul Torres described him as “the kind of kid you wish you had ten of—dependable, smart, and eager to learn. He would’ve gone far in life.”
In honor of Marcus’s life and spirit, a GoFundMe campaign has been created to assist the Bentley family with funeral costs and to establish a scholarship fund for aspiring vocational students pursuing careers in automotive work—just as Marcus had dreamed.
While the investigation into what caused the crash remains ongoing, the community is choosing to focus on Marcus’s legacy: a life filled with promise, passion, and purpose, tragically cut short but never forgotten.
Funeral service details will be released soon. The Bentley family invites friends, classmates, and community members to attend the upcoming memorial in Washington Court House to celebrate Marcus’s life.
A message left at the roadside memorial captures what so many are feeling:
“Forever 17. Drive fast in Heaven, Marcus.”