ROSS TOWNSHIP, OHIO — October 12, 2025
With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, the community of Ross Township is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Cory McQuitty, a vibrant and beloved 24-year-old who tragically lost his life in a hit-and-run accident on the night of Saturday, October 11, in Hanover Township.
The incident occurred along Hamilton Richmond Road (U.S. 27), just north of Cochran Road, shortly after 10:30 p.m., according to the Butler County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities say Cory was struck by an unknown vehicle that fled the scene, leaving the young man critically injured on the roadside. Emergency responders arrived minutes later, but despite all life-saving efforts, Cory was pronounced dead at the scene.
The vehicle involved did not stop, and investigators are urging the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the driver responsible.
A Life Full of Promise and Light
Cory McQuitty was known throughout Ross Township as a joyful spirit and a caring friend with a deep love for family, music, and the outdoors. Friends describe him as someone who could “light up any room with his smile and sense of humor” and who “never hesitated to help someone in need.”
He was a Ross High School graduate, class of 2019, and had recently begun pursuing a career in automotive repair, a field he was passionate about since childhood. According to those close to him, Cory had dreams of one day opening his own garage.
“He was just the kind of person you never forget,” said a longtime friend. “He made everyone feel seen and important. He had a heart that was too big for this world.”
Cory also loved working on cars, attending concerts with friends, and spending weekends hiking local trails. His social media reflected a life filled with laughter, adventure, and deep bonds with those he loved.
Community Shock and Outrage
News of the hit-and-run has sent shockwaves through the quiet communities of Ross and Hanover Townships, leaving residents stunned that such a senseless act could take place in their own backyard.
Dozens of community members gathered near the scene Sunday evening to leave candles, flowers, and handwritten notes in Cory’s memory. Many are demanding justice and accountability for the crime.
“This was not just a statistic. This was someone’s son, brother, best friend,” said Kelly Harmon, a family friend who organized a small vigil. “Whoever did this needs to come forward, or someone who knows them needs to do the right thing.”
Local officials echoed those sentiments, urging the public to remain vigilant and cooperative as the investigation continues.
Investigation and Public Assistance
The Butler County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Investigations Unit is actively working the case and has released a public appeal for help in locating the vehicle and driver involved. Investigators believe the car may have front-end damage, including possible headlight or windshield damage, consistent with a pedestrian impact.
Anyone who was traveling along U.S. 27 between 10:15 p.m. and 10:45 p.m. on Saturday and observed suspicious activity — or who may have dashcam footage — is asked to contact the sheriff’s office immediately.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Butler County Crime Stoppers at 513-352-3040, or through the Submit-A-Tip app.
A Community in Mourning
Plans are underway for a public candlelight vigil to be held later this week in Ross Township Park, where Cory often spent time with friends. A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to help the McQuitty family cover funeral expenses and honor Cory’s memory in a meaningful way.
“No family should have to go through this — not like this,” said Cory’s aunt, Melissa McQuitty. “We are devastated, but we are also determined to find justice for him. He deserves that much.”
As Ross Township comes to terms with this tragic loss, community members are holding on tightly to one another — honoring Cory’s life, demanding answers, and refusing to let his memory fade in silence.
In Loving Memory of Cory McQuitty
🕯️ April 21, 2001 – October 11, 2025
“Your light, your laugh, your love — gone too soon, but never forgotten.”
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