Newark, OH – April 2026 – The Newark community reels from the tragic hit-and-run death of Alan Kissell, 77, on April 15, 2026, along State Route 79 near Hebron village limits. Struck from behind while driving his International Harvester 2250 tractor by a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado around 6:30 p.m., Alan succumbed to critical injuries at Licking Memorial Hospital despite heroic efforts. Suspect Derek Baldwin, 52, of Des Moines, IA, fled but was identified; investigation by Hebron PD and Ohio State Highway Patrol continues.
This obituary 2026 honors Alan’s steadfast life amid senseless loss, with full funeral arrangements and memorial details for grieving family, friends, and neighbors.
The Devastating Crash: Seeking Justice on SR 79
A multi-agency response—Hebron PD, OSHP Aviation, Licking County Sheriff, local fire districts, and ODNR—secured the scene. The Silverado driver failed to maintain distance, rear-ending the tractor before fleeing on foot. Alan, airlifted—transported to hospital, fought valiantly but passed away. Community demands accountability on this rural Ohio route.
Alan Kissell: Newark’s Quiet Pillar
Alan Kissell, 77, was Newark’s embodiment of hard work and reliability—operating his tractor with steady hands, fostering community ties through daily routines. Neighbors cherish his familiar presence, conversations, and unassuming strength. “Alan was the heartbeat of our roads,” shares a friend. His legacy? Enduring impact beyond headlines.
Community in Mourning: United for Alan
Tributes surge, with vigils calling for road safety upgrades on SR 79. Newark rallies around Alan’s family, blending grief with resolve.
Funeral Arrangements & Celebration of Life
Alan’s family shares these solemn details; all are welcome.
Visitation
- Date & Time: Sunday, [Date], 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Location: Brubaker Funeral Home, 235 E Main St, Newark, OH 43055
- Evening for shared memories and support.
Funeral Service
- Date & Time: Monday, [Date], 11:00 AM
- Location: First Presbyterian Church, 23 N 6th St, Newark, OH 43055
- Service with hymns, tractor-themed tributes, and eulogies from loved ones.
Burial Details
- Immediately Following
- Location: Cedar Hill Cemetery, 1497 W Main St, Newark, OH 43055
- Graveside with farmer’s honor, American flag, and community procession.
Reception & Celebration of Life
- Date & Time: Monday, [Date], 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Location: VFW Post 3345, 319 Granville St, Newark, OH 43055
- Casual gathering with comfort foods, photo boards, and stories of Alan’s life. Donations to Licking County Road Safety Fund or Tractor Safety Awareness.
Lasting Remembrance: Drive for Justice
Alan Kissell passed away in tragedy, but his life shines on. These funeral arrangements and celebration of life honor his spirit—rest in peace, Alan; Newark remembers.
The family retains sole rights to release obituary, memorial, funeral, and visitation details; we respect their wishes fully. Pending updates/official reports, not all details are accurate—this article may be updated as new information arises. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the content up to date, we make no guarantees of any kind.
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