PACKWOOD – An area high school student was killed in a head-on collision yesterday morning that remains under investigation.

According to traffic records, yesterday morning at around 7:35am, a fatal crash took place on Packwood Road, south of Packwood. Authorities say a 2003 Toyota Camry collided with a 1999 Dodge Ram head-on after crossing the center line for an unknown reason. The Camry was driven by Pekin high school senior Ava Ford, and she was pronounced dead on the scene. She was 17 years old.

The driver of the Ram, who was identified as 40-year-old Clinton Weaver of Lancaster, Missouri, suffered undisclosed injuries and was flown to the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.

The traffic report shows that both drivers were wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.

The Pekin School District described Ava as a “passionate, kind and thoughtful student who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.” The district announced that their school counselor will be available in the high school office throughout the rest of this week and next week, ready to provide support to any student or community member who may need to talk. Additionally, a grief crisis team will be on standby.