A Beloved Community Member Taken Too Soon

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety continues its investigation after a deadly hit-and-run left 51-year-old Mark Allen McBride dead in the road on South Westnedge Avenue, according to KDPS Deputy Chief Matt Huber.

Officers were called to South Westnedge Avenue near the intersection of Axtell Street for a crash at 8:45 p.m. Wednesday, March 25. When they arrived, officers found McBride in the road with serious injuries. He later died at the scene, according to KDPS.

The case has now been submitted to the Kalamazoo County Prosecutor's Office for review, according to Huber.

Family Statement

"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Mark, a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, friend, and member of the Kalamazoo community," family members said.

Mark Allen McBride, 51, died after hit-and-run on March 25, 2026, in Kalamazoo, Mich. (Joshua Diedrich/WWMT)

"Mark was the kind of person who showed up for others without being asked; someone who led with kindness, generosity and a genuine care for the people around him," the family statement continued.

"He was a hard worker with an incredible sense of humor, and he had a way of making people feel seen, valued and at ease. His absence leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of all who knew him."

"His family is grieving this unimaginable loss and asks for privacy as we navigate the days ahead."

Adam McBride, Mark's younger brother, spoke to News Channel 3 about the difficult past week for the family.

"Just a lot of shock and sadness, it's been difficult," he said.

Deep Connection Between Brothers

Adam McBride told News Channel 3 that he was very close with Mark.

"We were about two years apart, some people said we were Irish twins," he said. "He was my lifelong best friend growing up."

Mark McBride worked for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and always had a passion for helping others. Adam McBride said he and his brother's bond strengthened over the last few years, as Mark would help him out at his Berrien County Vineyard.

"He was involved in almost every harvest that we had," he said. "He was helping people all week long doing his day job and then when he had free time, he was helped me. He was just always giving of his time."

"He was a very special soul," Adam added.

Not only was Mark McBride a caring, hardworking loving brother, but also a father of two and a grandfather.

Vehicle Recovered, Suspect at Large

The following day, investigators found the car involved in the hit-and-run unoccupied in Galesburg.

Witnesses told officers they saw two cars speeding by when the crash happened. Investigators believe one of those vehicles hit McBride before leaving the scene.

Using FUSUS video integrated technology and license plate reader systems, KDPS identified the suspected vehicle, which was later recovered in Galesburg. The Kalamazoo Forensics Crime Lab processed both the crash scene and the recovered vehicle.

South Westnedge Avenue was closed for several hours between Axtell and Pioneer streets during the investigation.

Police have not yet identified any suspects, and the case remains active.

Community Concerns About Speeding

Ryan Barber, owner of Kzoo Swift, a bike shop that was previously located on South Westnedge Avenue, shared his concerns about the situation. Barber's shop was hit by an SUV nearly four years ago, causing him to relocate to Ravine Road in early 2024 because of crime and speeding drivers.

"It just seems like it's a racetrack to get one way or the other," Barber said. "I feel like there's a lot of people driving around without license plates, without lights, speeding, and I don't really see many people getting pulled over."

Barber, who lives near the scene of the recent hit-and-run, emphasized the need for action to prevent further tragedies.

"Someone lost their life, like that's horrible, and it shouldn't take that to do something about it," he said.

A viewer also emailed News Channel 3 about issues they've seen on the street.

"The crosswalks consist of two white lines and maybe a pedestrian crossing sign but nothing reflective and definitely not anything lit up to signify the crosswalk is occupied," the viewer wrote.

"I see people trusting these crosswalks literally with their lives all the time....and the people driving can't see them until they are right on them."

Barber and other residents hope that increased awareness and community pressure will lead to meaningful changes.

"Be better. Take your time. Not everything is in such a big rush, rush, rush to get there 30 seconds quicker," Barber said.

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information on the suspect(s) is asked to contact KDPS Criminal Investigations at 269-337-8139. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Kalamazoo Silent Observer at 269-343-2100, via the P3Tips app, or online at kalamazoosilentobserver.com.

Previous Coverage

  • Suspect vehicle found, victim identified in deadly Kalamazoo hit-and-run
  • Victim identified in fatal hit-and-run in Kalamazoo; suspect search continues
  • Kalamazoo residents concerned about speeding on South Westnedge after fatal hit-and-run

"We appreciate the outpouring of support and ask that you keep Mark and his family in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time," the family statement concluded. "This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and out of respect for that process, we are unable to share additional details at this time."