Licking County, Ohio – A pedestrian was struck and killed Monday evening in a two-vehicle crash along U.S. Route 40 in Licking County, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Incident Overview
The fatal crash occurred around 6:10 p.m. on December 30 near the intersection of U.S. Route 40 and State Route 668 in the Brownsville area. Troopers from the Ohio State Highway Patrol responded to the scene following reports of a pedestrian being hit by multiple vehicles.
What Happened on U.S. Route 40
Authorities said Gene Church, 30, of Brownsville, was walking along the north side of U.S. Route 40 when he entered the roadway. As he crossed, he was struck by a westbound Buick LaCrosse.
Moments later, a second westbound vehicle also struck Church. That driver fled the scene and has not yet been identified, according to investigators.
Drivers Involved and Immediate Response
The driver of the Buick LaCrosse remained at the crash site and cooperated with troopers. Officials confirmed the Buick driver was not injured in the collision.
Emergency responders transported Church to Genesis Hospital in Zanesville, where he was later pronounced dead from his injuries.
Investigation Underway
The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, including the actions of the second vehicle involved. Troopers are working to identify the hit-and-run driver and determine whether additional factors such as lighting conditions, visibility, or speed contributed to the incident.
No charges have been announced at this time.
Pedestrian Safety and Hit-and-Run Concerns
Pedestrian fatalities often increase during evening hours, especially along highways and rural roadways with limited lighting. Law enforcement officials routinely remind drivers to remain alert for pedestrians and stress that leaving the scene of a crash involving injury or death is a serious criminal offense under Ohio law.
Anyone with information related to the crash or the fleeing vehicle is urged to contact the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Conclusion
The death of Gene Church marks another tragic reminder of the dangers pedestrians face on high-speed roadways. As the investigation continues, authorities hope to locate the second driver involved and provide answers to the victim’s family.
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