He was walking along the quiet road just before sunrise, sharing the lane with early-morning traffic, when tragedy struck without warning. Cody Gear, 40, of Elida, lost his life in a fatal pedestrian accident on Napoleon Road near State Route 81 in Jackson Township. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 4:32 a.m. when an oncoming 2006 Chevrolet Silverado,
driven by 81-year-old Merl Hall of Lafayette, struck Gear as he walked in the same direction as traffic.Emergency responders from local fire and EMS units arrived quickly and provided medical aid before transporting Gear to Lima Memorial Hospital. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Hall, the driver of the pickup truck, was not injured and remained at the scene, cooperating fully with investigators.
The crash occurred on a rural stretch of Napoleon Road—a dimly lit area surrounded by farmland and open fields. Investigators believe low visibility and the pre-dawn darkness may have played a role in the accident. There is currently no indication of impairment or excessive speed, but the investigation remains ongoing. The Ohio State Highway Patrol is leading the inquiry, assisted by local fire and EMS personnel, as they reconstruct the events leading up to the impact.
Friends and neighbors describe Cody Gear as a hardworking, kindhearted man who often walked to clear his mind and enjoy the quiet of the countryside. His sudden death has deeply saddened the Elida community, where he was known for his easygoing nature and genuine kindness.As authorities continue their investigation, loved ones are left mourning a life cut short in a moment that came without warning. The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds motorists and pedestrians alike to exercise caution, especially during low-light hours.
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