Man hit, killed by car in Beaver County

ALIQUIPPA, Pa. — State police say Jeffrey Owens, 68, died after he was hit by a Jeep on Brodhead Road just after 10 p.m. Tuesday in front of Papa Johns.

“I was using the bathroom last night and all of the sudden I heard a thud,” said Joe Jones, who lives next door. “I thought somebody hit my car. I came outside and was looking at my car. It wasn’t my car, I seen a person laying on the ground, and I came over and it was Jeff Owens.”

Jones told Channel 11’s Andrew Havranek he’d been friends with Owens for several years. He said Owens lived in the apartment building next to Papa Johns, just two buildings away from Jones.

“Jeff was a really nice guy who helped anybody out if need be,” Jones said. “I know he helped me out a couple times at the house over there. I had a water leak one time and he came over and fixed it. Happy Jeff.”

In a video posted to Facebook, you can see state troopers taking a man into custody. That man has not yet been charged in the incident.

On Wednesday, you can see orange markings where the crash happened.

State police initially believed the crash could have been the result of a DUI. However, charges have not been filed.

Troopers said the suspect was taken for blood work after the crash. The Beaver County District Attorney said they’re still waiting for the results.

“There is no hit and run or anything like that. There potentially could have been speeding; potentially could have been under the influence. All of those things are still being investigated, but as of right now there’s nothing definitive to say this individual committed a crime,” District Attorney Nate Bible said.

No matter the cause, Jones said Owens’ death is tragic, and he wants to see people slow down.

“Slow down, save a life,” he said.

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