The fatal crash on Route 68 in Toby Township claimed the lives of three individuals, including 16-year-old Landon Avory Akins, who passed away on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
Landon Akins is survived by his mother, Leighann Berry, stepfather Greg Berry, stepmother Ami Akins, and siblings Lanna Marie and her partner Dustin, Hunter Akins and his partner Genevieve, Nikayla and her fiance Kelley, and Elijah Akins.
The 16-year-old Landon was preceded in death by his father, Barry Alan Akins Jr.
His mother, Leighann, and step-father Greg Berry, co-owner of Berrys Gameroom, Affival, walked down the aisle on June 28, 2014.
Landon and his step-father, Greg Berry, had a sound bond with Greg writing a lengthy eulogy describing how they clicked in their very first meet to how bonding with him gave him the understanding of what it meant to be a dad.
I’m not really sure how I will navigate without you here harassing me and just being my silly happy and most of all loving son
I can go on and on and on about you
That’s just how much I love you
Rest in peace my baby boy and race those heavenly trails up there
I love you son.
Please visit me in my dreams
Landon’s sister, Lanna Marie, updated her profile picture featuring him following his demise.
In addition to his father Barry, Landon’s papa, Tim Berry, Sr., and great-grandparents Big Pap B-Ninny Arthur (Martha) Akins, Carl (Stella) Trusiak, Robert (Irene) Cypher, and Donald (Martha) Knappenberger also preceded him in death.
Landon left behind grandparents, Robert(Kim) Knappenberger, Charles and Laurie Toy; Barry and Cynthia “ Nin and Pop” Akins, Sr., Sandra Berry; David (Deb) Weaver and Lynus (Peggy) Barr; great-grandmother Shirley Fouse; uncles Craig (Reona) Akins, Bobby Knappenberger, Timothy Berry, Anthony Berry, Jake Berry, Charlie Toy, and Kevin Toy; aunts, Angela Berry and Joann Toy; many, many cousins, great-aunts and great-uncles, and extended family.
In addition to Landon, the tragic car accident claimed the lives of fellow 16-year-old Cambrie Priester and 55-year-old Christopher McNutt.
The collision occurred when a northbound vehicle crossed the center double yellow lines and struck a southbound car.
Landon, a passenger in the northbound car, and the teenage driver, Cambrie, died at the scene.
The southbound driver, Christopher McNutt, also lost his life in the crash, while another teenage passenger in that vehicle was hospitalized with serious injuries. Meanwhile, the investigation into the cause of the accident remains ongoing.
Landon Akins Had Plans to Attend Lenape Tech!
Landon Akins was born in Kittanning on August 4, 2008, to his parents, mother Leighann, and the late Barry Alan Akins Jr., who preceded him in death.
The 16-year-old Landon, who grew up in Cadogan, was an Armstrong High School sophomore. A young man with big dreams, he had plans to attend Lenape Tech to study welding.
Beyond his ambitions, he found joy in the outdoors, riding his dirt bike with friends, racing with AWRCS, fishing, hunting, and camping.
Family traditions, like the annual deer camp and bonfires at the Riggle house, were among his most treasured moments.
His best friend, Corey Riggle, along with countless buddies from Burrell Township and beyond, will remember him.
Landon’s family shared a heartfelt tribute, writing a eulogy describing him as a light in their lives.
He will be greatly missed by so many and cherished for the remainder of our life. May he rest in peace.
They find solace in believing that Landon’s father, Barry “Bear” Akins, welcomed him into heaven alongside other departed loved ones, including his grandfather Tim Berry, Sr., and several great-grandparents.
Landon’s visitation is scheduled for Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 2 PM to 4 PM and 6 PM to 9 PM at Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., in Ford City.
Additional visitation will take place on Friday, March 28, from 10 AM until the funeral service at 11 AM, officiated by Pastor Lee Rupert.
Landon will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery, Spring Church, with a wake to follow at the Burrell Township Firehall.
