A Salem City Schools teacher was killed in a car crash early Tuesday morning in Stark County.

Salem City School district says Jr/Sr High teacher, Kera Lemasters-Leskovec died in a head-on collision.

Lemasters-Leskovec's husband recently died from COVID-19 and was a new mother to a 6-month old.

The 32-year-old died while driving to work in Lexington Township around 6:40 a.m. on State Route 183.

Ohio State Highway Patrol officers in Stark County say Lemasters-Leskovec was struck head-on by a car that went left of center.

The operator of the other vehicle did not survive.

Both drivers were wearing their seatbelts.

Salem City Schools superintendent, Sean Kirkland, posted on their Facebook page the following statement:

"Dear Quaker Family,

It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that I must inform you of the passing of Mrs. Kera Leskovec, who was tragically killed in an automobile accident on her way to work this morning. Kera was an extremely valued Jr/Sr High teacher and individual that will be greatly missed by her colleagues and students alike. Please keep her family in your thoughts as they grieve and process the untimely death of their beloved daughter just months after losing Kevin, Kera’s husband, to COVID-19. I find it hard to even fathom the grief and despair that her family is confronted with. Details concerning calling hours and funeral arrangements will be shared when I receive them. Counselors are available in the guidance office for any student that would like to talk. I ask that we all please take a moment today to spread some kindness and love in memory of our dear friend Kera Leskovec."

Leskovec's closest friend Katie Mahon tells 21 News she feels a whirlwind of emotions.


"I was just frustrated, mad, sad, asking why," said Mahon. "Why did this have to happen to her after her husband just passed away three months ago, and they have a six month old little girl who now doesn't have a mother or father," she said.


Mahon tells 21 News Leskovec was passionate about her job and loved her students. Mahon says she will make sure Leskovec's baby girl knows exactly what kind of parents she had.


"Even though I'm not technically related, blood related, I call her my niece. I will always be an aunt to her," said Mahon. "I will make sure I'm part of her life, I will make sure that she knows who her mom and dad were and that they were amazing people that loved her so much," she said.


Mahon says the family is in shock but grateful for all the support they've received. Mahon has set up a go fund me page for funeral expenses and to help care for the baby girl, on her facebook page Katie Mahon.