A high school senior from Avon, Ohio, Paul Lucas Allen, tragically lost his life this past Saturday, April 13, in what started as a playful game among friends.
Allen, 18, was participating in a game of tag involving squirt guns when he attempted a daring maneuver, jumping onto the running board of a friend’s Ford Bronco. This decision proved fatal as he fell from the moving vehicle and sustained severe head injuries that led to his untimely death.
The incident occurred in the suburban streets of Avon, about 20 miles west of Cleveland, a quiet community known for its family-friendly atmosphere. At approximately 3:40 p.m., on Crown Colony Drive, Allen, known affectionately as “Luke” to his friends and family, spotted his friend approaching in the vehicle. In the game’s spirit, he spontaneously jumped onto the running board of the SUV. However, as the vehicle proceeded, Allen lost his balance and fell backward onto the roadway, striking his head.
First responders rushed to the scene where a bystander was already performing CPR on Allen. He was quickly transported to St. John Westshore Hospital but sadly passed away shortly after his arrival. The Avon Police Department has since initiated a thorough investigation into the incident, with the Crash Reconstruction Unit tasked with detailing their findings for further review by the local prosecutor’s office.
Paul Lucas Allen was a beloved figure in his community and at Avon High School, where he was a senior. His obituary paints the picture of a vibrant young man with a passion for the outdoors and dreams of studying business at Northern Michigan University in the fall. His interests included fishing, boating, snowboarding, and four-wheeling—activities he often enjoyed with family and friends. Allen is survived by his parents and three siblings, leaving behind a community in mourning.
“He had a contagious fiery soul, always putting a smile on everyone’s face,” his obituary read. Friends and family described him as a person with a big heart, always ready to lend a hand to those in need.
This heartbreaking event has cast a shadow over the local community, prompting reflections on the safety of youthful escapades and the unforeseen dangers they can entail. Avon’s police chief, in a statement, expressed deep sympathy for the Allen family and emphasized the importance of community support during such difficult times.
“We urge everyone to remember how fragile life can be and to cherish every moment with their loved ones,” said a police spokesperson.
The local school district has offered counselors and support services to students and staff at Avon High School, helping them cope with losing their classmate and friend. A candlelight vigil is also planned to celebrate Allen’s life and support his grieving family.
As the investigation continues, the community holds on to the memory of a young man who brought joy and kindness to all who knew him.
