Eric A. Richie, 26, and Jarred J. Bullion, 24, killed in collision that leaves 2 others injured on S.R. 203; alcohol likely a factor

Troopers are investigating a two-vehicle crash that occurred in Marion County where two people were killed and two others were injured. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, troopers with the Marion post responded to the area of state Route 203 and Keener Road, at about 1:32 a.m. Sunday, on a report of a motor-vehicle crash. Troopers say a 1998 Honda CRV, driven by 26-year-old Eric A. Richie, of Marion, was approaching the intersection at state Route 203 and Keener road when a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am, driven by 31-year-old Robert A. Persinger Jr., of Marion, failed to stop for a stop sign at the intersection and struck the right passenger side of the Honda. Richie was pronounced dead at the scene, according to troopers. A passenger in his vehicle, 24-year-old Jarred J. Bullion, of Marion, was pronounced dead en-route to the hospital. A third passenger in the Honda, 19-year-old Quinton A. Owens, of Marion, and Keener, were transported by medical helicopter to Grant Medical Center with incapacitating injuries, according to troopers. Troopers say alcohol is considered to be a factor in the crash. No one involved in the crash was wearing a seatbelt. The investigation continues.