With heavy heart and profound sorrow, the Newark community is mourning the tragic and sudden loss of 77-year-old Alan Kissell, who was killed in a devastating hit-skip crash on April 15, 2026, along State Route 79 near the Hebron village limits.
News of his passing has left family, friends, and neighbors in deep grief as they struggle to come to terms with a loss that came suddenly and under heartbreaking circumstances. In a close-knit community like Newark, the impact of such a tragedy is deeply felt, reaching far beyond immediate family and touching all who knew him.
According to the Hebron Police Department and the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. when a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado struck the rear of an International Harvester 2250 tractor. Investigators believe the driver of the Chevrolet failed to maintain an assured clear distance ahead, resulting in the violent collision.
Following the crash, the driver of the Chevrolet fled the scene on foot before emergency responders arrived. Authorities have identified the suspect as 52-year-old Derek Baldwin of Des Moines, Iowa..
Alan Kissell, the operator of the tractor, was transported to Licking Memorial Hospital following the crash, where he was later pronounced deceased despite lifesaving efforts.
The scene drew a large multi-agency response, including the Hebron Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol Aviation Unit, Licking County Sheriff’s Office, Pataskala Police Department, West Licking Joint Fire District, Buckeye Lake Fire Department, Heath Fire Department, and Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Officers assisted with traffic control, scene security, and investigation coordination.
The Newark community is left grieving a life taken far too soon. Family and friends are now holding onto memories of Alan Kissell, remembering his presence, his life, and the moments shared with those who loved him.
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