19-year-old charged following fatal crash investigation

LAFAYETTE TWP. — Following an investigation of a fatal traffic crash on Monday, a 19-year-old was charged with aggravated vehicular homicide. The Medina Police Department has filed criminal charges following the investigation of the fatal crash that occurred at 5:11 p.m. on Monday. Officers responded to the 7100 block of Friendsville Road for a report of a two-vehicle crash with injuries. Upon arrival, officers found one vehicle overturned and another with heavy front-end damage. Investigators determined that one vehicle was occupied by a man and a woman. The woman, Pegeen Razem, age 63, of Lodi, sustained critical injuries and later died as a result of the crash. The driver of the vehicle, Robert Razem, was also injured and transported for medical treatment. The second vehicle involved in the crash was driven by Brenden Anthony Gundel, 19, of Lodi, who was the sole occupant. Gundel sustained injuries and was transported for medical treatment. Friendsville Road was closed for several hours. As a result of the investigation, Gundel has been charged with aggravated vehicular homicide. He is being held at the Medina County Jail. Based on the investigation, alcohol or drug impairment is not believed to be a factor in the crash. Investigations determined reckless driving to be the cause of the crash. The case will be presented to a Medina County grand jury, and additional charges may be filed pending their review. "This is a heartbreaking loss, and our thoughts are with the victim's family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time," police Chief Ed Kinney said. "This crash is a tragic reminder that reckless driving decisions can have permanent and devastating consequences. We urge everyone to slow down, drive responsibly and remember that a moment of poor judgment can change lives forever." In addition to Medina police, other first responders at the scene included the Lafayette Township Fire Department, the Westfield Fire and Rescue District, the Lodi Fire Department and the Medina County Sheriff's Office. Contact reporter Patrick Rhonemus at (330) 721–4050 or prhonemus@medina-gazette.com.