Allen County, Ohio – 40-year-old Cody Gear was killed early Thursday morning after being struck by a pickup truck while walking along Napoleon Road near State Route 81. The tragic collision occurred just after 4:30 a.m., leaving the quiet rural stretch closed for hours as investigators combed through the scene for clues.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Gear was walking northbound on Napoleon Road when an 81-year-old man, identified as Merl Hall, was driving a pickup truck in the same direction. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle struck Gear along the roadside. The impact proved fatal.

Emergency responders arrived within minutes of the 911 call. Despite their immediate life-saving efforts, Gear was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash site, a dimly lit and sparsely populated section of the road, presented challenging conditions for both drivers and pedestrians at that early hour.

Authorities shut down the roadway for several hours to document evidence and reconstruct the sequence of events. Investigators carefully marked tire tracks, debris, and other physical indicators that could help determine how the collision occurred. They also collected statements from the driver and any witnesses who may have seen the events leading up to the crash.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol confirmed that visibility, speed, and Gear’s position on the roadway are among the primary factors under review. Officers said they are also conducting toxicology tests on both the driver and the pedestrian, as is standard procedure in fatal traffic investigations. Vehicle inspections will further determine if any mechanical issues played a role.

As part of their comprehensive review, authorities plan to submit their findings to the Allen County Prosecutor’s Office once the investigation concludes. Any potential charges or citations will depend on the results of the analysis and whether negligence, impairment, or other contributing factors are identified.

Residents familiar with Napoleon Road described it as a long, dimly lit corridor that lacks sidewalks or sufficient street lighting. Locals say it’s common to see pedestrians or joggers in the area, but poor visibility has long been a concern. The early morning darkness and rural layout may have created dangerous conditions for both Gear and the driver.

No further injuries were reported, and police have not announced any criminal charges at this time. The driver of the pickup truck remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. Authorities have not indicated whether excessive speed or distraction played a role in the deadly crash.

Community members have expressed grief and sympathy for Gear’s family and friends, describing him as a kind individual known around the area. Several residents have called for increased lighting or pedestrian safety measures along Napoleon Road to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.

As the investigation continues, officials are urging both motorists and pedestrians to exercise heightened caution, especially on unlit rural roads during nighttime and early morning hours. The Ohio State Highway Patrol emphasized that each fatality on the road leaves lasting pain for multiple families — a stark reminder of how fragile life can be in a single moment of misjudgment.