Granville, Ohio — A close-knit community is reeling after the death of 56-year-old Gene Church of Brownsville, who was struck and killed by vehicles late Tuesday evening on U.S. Route 40 near the intersection with State Route 668. Loved ones describe Church as a gentle soul whose life was taken far too soon in a sudden and heartbreaking collision that has left neighbors shaken and asking questions.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol says the crash happened just after 6:10 p.m., when Church stepped into the westbound lanes of U.S. 40 from the north side of the highway. At that moment, a 2013 Buick LaCrosse driven by 52-year-old Mechelle Thompson of Heath struck Church. Immediately after the initial impact, Church fell into the westbound travel lanes.
In an already awful twist, a second vehicle struck Church while he was in the roadway and then fled the scene, leaving behind confusion and sorrow. Troopers confirmed that this second vehicle has not yet been identified, and their investigation remains active as authorities continue working to piece together what happened and find the fleeing driver.
Emergency crews responded quickly and rushed Church to Genesis Hospital in Zanesville, but he was later pronounced dead. Thompson, the driver of the Buick, was not injured and remained on the scene to speak with investigators.
Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including the Ohio Department of Transportation, the Licking Township Fire Department, and the National Trails Fire Department, highlighting the seriousness of the incident and the extensive emergency response needed to manage the scene.
In the days since the crash, many in Granville and the surrounding Licking County area have shared stories of Church’s kindness and warmth. Neighbors remember him as someone who lit up conversations and cared deeply about his friends and community. His sudden loss has prompted an outpouring of grief and support for his family.
As the investigation continues and authorities seek information about the hit-and-run driver, Church’s passing serves as a stark reminder of how fragile life can be, and how vital it is for all of us to take care on busy roadways. His family and friends say they will forever cherish the memories they shared with him and hope that justice and some measure of closure will follow in the coming days.
