Charlie Kohl Death and Obituary – The Bennet community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 7-year-old Charles “Charlie” Kohl, a second-grader at Bennet Elementary, who tragically died in a utility task vehicle (UTV) accident on January 19, 2026. The incident has left the family, school, and local residents deeply shaken.
According to the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, the accident occurred around 4:00 p.m. near South 162nd Street and Bennet Road. Charlie’s 9-year-old brother was operating the UTV at the time of the crash. While the older brother survived, he sustained a broken leg and is recovering under medical supervision. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, noting that safety measures and guidance for young UTV operators are a growing concern in rural communities.
Charlie Kohl, a bright and energetic second-grader, was known for his joyful personality and love for learning. Teachers and classmates remember him as a kind-hearted child who brought smiles to everyone he met. His sudden passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew him.
In response to the tragedy, District OR-1 schools, which serve the Bennet-Palmyra community, closed on January 20 to provide support and allow families, staff, and students time to grieve. A crisis response team was stationed at Bennet Elementary to assist students and staff in coping with the loss. Counselors are offering individual and group sessions to ensure that children affected by the event receive the emotional support they need.
The community has rallied around the Kohl family, sharing messages of condolences, organizing vigils, and providing support during this incredibly difficult time. Local leaders have emphasized the importance of child safety in recreational vehicles and the need for careful supervision, especially when children are involved in operating machinery such as UTVs.
Charlie’s death has sparked renewed conversations about safety protocols for youth in rural settings, with experts urging families to implement strict age and supervision guidelines. While the community mourns, they also hope that increased awareness will prevent future tragedies.
Friends, neighbors, and local organizations continue to honor Charlie’s memory through acts of kindness and remembrance. His life, though tragically short, left a lasting impression on those around him. The Bennet community remains united in grief, standing in support of the Kohl family during this period of unimaginable loss.