Vicco ATV Crash Kills 16-Year-Old; Juvenile Driver Charged With DUI

Emilynn Clark, a 16-year-old Perry County Central High School student, was killed after an ATV crash on Oakwood Avenue in the Vicco community, deputies said. Authorities received a call about the crash at approximately 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 28, and have charged the juvenile operator with driving under the influence.

Perry County Sheriff Joe Engle said the ATV went off the road and over an embankment after the operator lost control, with the vehicle reportedly going over a hill and down a culvert embankment. Four people were on the ATV at the time: two female juveniles and two adult men. One adult male passenger, who was sitting in the back seat, was flown by medical helicopter to a trauma center with serious injuries.

Family members identified the deceased as Emilynn Clark, and Perry County Central High School issued a statement saying, "It is with the deepest sadness we have learned one of our students at Perry County Central High School was tragically killed in an ATV accident Saturday evening. Our hearts are broken for the student’s family, her friends, and our Commodore family. Please keep this family and others involved in your thoughts and prayers in the days to come." The school also announced counselors will be available Monday for students and staff.

Sheriff Engle said investigators "do believe alcohol to be a factor in this" and asked the community for patience while authorities complete the inquiry. "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," Engle said. He also offered condolences: "I’d like to advise all the people involved in this and the families: Our prayers are with you, especially the young lady who lost her life and her family and friends. We’re holding you up in prayer. We’re thinking about you."

The sheriff’s office obtained a search warrant for a blood sample from the juvenile operator; results are being tested and Engle said it will take "a month or so to get the blood sample back." Deputies are reviewing surveillance video from a local business to determine where the alcohol involved in the incident was purchased. Investigators have identified the ATV owner as Noah Back of Vicco.

Officials said they are consulting with the local Commonwealth’s attorney about any additional charges that may be presented to a grand jury, including possible vehicular homicide or manslaughter, and noted charges are also pending against the adult passengers under investigation. The family of Emilynn Clark has started a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses.

The Perry County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains ongoing; prosecutors will review evidence once the blood testing returns and deputies complete surveillance and scene follow-up before filing any further charges.