A student from Malvern Preparatory School has been recognized as the young man who tragically lost his life on Tuesday morning. The incident occurred when a deer, struck by one car, landed in the path of another vehicle on Route 322 in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
School officials said Kevin Donohue was on his way to school when the accident occurred.
“Kevin was an outstanding young individual who encapsulated the finest attributes of a Malvern Prep student,” shared school officials in a letter to community members. “His absence will be felt deeply.”
The collision took place around 7 a.m. on Route 322 (Downingtown Pike), just east of Romig Road. According to police, a car heading east collided with a deer, catapulting the animal into the westbound lane.
The deer landed on the windshield of a second vehicle traveling westbound.
Donohue, who was in the front passenger seat of the second vehicle, was taken to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
“This is a devastating tragedy that has affected our students, teachers, staff, and the entire community… Our immediate priority is to offer support to his family and ensure our students, faculty, and staff have the support they need as we mourn collectively,” stated Head of School Patrick Sillup in an announcement.
The car that first hit the deer did not remain at the scene and is yet to be identified. Authorities suspect it could be a black Toyota Sienna with substantial damage to the front.
A juvenile has died in a freak accident after a car crashed into a deer in West Bradford Township on Tuesday morning.
The road was closed for several hours and reopened around 10 a.m.
Residents in the area say deer-related crashes are a recurring issue, especially during darker months.
“Driving at night is a necessity, especially in the winter months,” remarked Clarabelle Hernandez of Coatesville. “Many animals are on the move for hibernation, and more drivers are likely to encounter darker conditions.”
“It’s very dark,” added Debbie Pope of East Bradford Township. “There’s a lot of roads, especially Boot Road and 322. I don’t even drive down there at night because I can’t even see and it’s difficult.”
Donohue was a sophomore and a talented member of the Malvern Prep lacrosse team. He was expected to graduate from Malvern Prep with the class of 2027. His brother and father are also alumni of the school.
Those who live near the Donahue family in Downingtown say they are beyond heartbroken.
“I could only imagine what the family is going through, having lost a young son,” said Jason Lazurick of Downingtown.
“As someone who drives children around these roads often, and we know many other people who do, it’s a very sad scenario. That is, you just can’t be prepared for anything like that, ever,” added Judy Anstraus.
School officials said the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) will be on campus to provide counseling support.
The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact PSP Embreeville at 610-486-6280.
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