Granville, OH (April 16, 2026) – A 77-year-old man from Newark lost his life following a two-vehicle crash in Granville.
The accident happened around 6:38 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15, along State Route 79 near mile marker 7. Authorities said Alan Kissel was driving an International Harvester tractor northbound in the right lane when a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado traveling behind him failed to keep a safe distance and struck the tractor.
After the impact, the Chevrolet veered off the right side of the roadway and hit a curb. The driver then left the scene on foot before emergency units arrived. Kissel was taken to Licking Memorial Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The suspected driver, identified as 52-year-old Derek Baldwin of Des Moines, Iowa, has not yet been located. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
What Happens When a Driver Leaves the Scene of a Crash?
When a driver leaves the scene after a crash, it can complicate the process of gathering facts. Investigators often rely on physical evidence such as vehicle debris, tire marks, and witness statements to piece together what happened. Surveillance cameras in nearby areas may also help identify the vehicle and driver involved.
Medical reports can provide insight into the severity of injuries and how the impact occurred. In cases involving fatalities, timelines become especially relevant in determining how events unfolded before and after the crash.
Locating the driver is a key step, as it allows for further questioning and verification of details. These situations can take time, especially if the driver is not immediately found at the scene.
