The Harrison County community is grieving after the tragic death of 12-year-old Ana Zarkovic, a seventh-grade student at Harrison Hills City School District died in a utility vehicle accident on Saturday afternoon.
The crash occurred just outside her home in Freeport Township, leaving classmates, teachers, and neighbors heartbroken. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the accident took place around Old Smyrna Road, near State Route 800.
Investigators reported that the black 2016 Kawasaki Mule Pro Ana was riding in overturned on the roadway before veering off and striking a ditch. Despite emergency efforts, Ana was transported to Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center in Cambridge, where she was tragically pronounced dead.
A 14-year-old passenger who was riding with Ana suffered only minor injuries and was treated before being released to her parents. While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, troopers indicated that unsafe speed is believed to have been a contributing factor.
The Steubenville Highway Patrol Post is leading the inquiry into the devastating incident. News of Ana’s passing quickly spread across Harrison County, with an outpouring of grief from her school, peers, and local residents.
The Harrison Hills City School District released a heartfelt statement Saturday night, honoring Ana as a bright, energetic, and beloved member of their community.
“It is with deep sadness that we share news of a tragic accident involving one of our students on August 23, 2025. We are heartbroken to report that Ana Zarkovic, a seventh-grade student, passed away in the accident. Ana was a bright light in our community and an active member of our Junior High cheerleading program. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with her family, friends, teammates, and all who loved her,” the district’s message read.
Superintendent Duran Morgan also noted that the timing of the tragedy—just before the start of the new school year—adds to the heartbreak. However, he emphasized that students and staff will come together on the first day of school to support one another.
The district has mobilized counseling and crisis support services for both students and staff in the days ahead. Parents who wish for their children to speak directly with a counselor have been encouraged to contact the school guidance office or fill out an online request form. Additional resources, such as the 988 Crisis Lifeline, were also shared for families needing immediate emotional support.
Ana was remembered as a cheerful and spirited young girl who excelled not only academically but also in extracurricular activities, particularly as part of the junior high cheerleading team. Friends and classmates have already begun sharing tributes, describing her as someone who could lift the spirits of those around her with her smile and enthusiasm.
The loss of such a young life has shaken the Harrison County community, underscoring the fragility of life and the importance of safety. As the investigation continues, the community is focusing on surrounding Ana’s family with love, prayers, and support during this unimaginably difficult time.
Ana Zarkovic’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her—her family, friends, teammates, and teachers. Though her life was tragically short, her impact on the community will be felt for years to come.
