Fatal Hit-and-Run Victim Mark McBride Identified, Suspect Vehicle Recovered in Galesburg

Victim Was Kalamazoo Resident Who Worked for MDHHS, Family Says He Showed Up for Others

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety has identified the victim in a fatal hit-and-run crash as Mark Allen McBride, 51, of Kalamazoo, and investigators have located the suspect vehicle in Galesburg, according to law enforcement officials.

McBride was killed after being struck by a vehicle near South Westnedge Avenue and Axtell Street in Kalamazoo on the evening of Wednesday, March 25, 2026, according to KDPS Deputy Chief Matt Huber.

Officers responded to the scene around 8:45 p.m. and found McBride in the roadway with serious injuries. He was later pronounced dead at the scene by Life EMS crews and first responders, Huber confirmed.

Witnesses Reported Two Cars Traveling at High Speed

According to KDPS, preliminary investigation suggests McBride was hit near the intersection of South Westnedge and Axtell. Witnesses told investigators they saw two vehicles traveling at high speed during the time of the crash.

Using FUSUS video integrated technology and license plate reader systems, KDPS identified the suspected vehicle, which was later recovered unoccupied in Galesburg, according to Fox 17 News.

The incident has now been submitted to the Kalamazoo County Prosecutor's Office for review, KDPS Deputy Chief Huber stated.

Family Releases Statement About Beloved Kalamazoo Community Member

McBride's family has released a heartfelt statement describing the deceased as a kind, generous community member who always showed up for others without being asked.

"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 in their statement.

"He 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 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."

The family described McBride as a hard worker with an incredible sense of humor, and said his absence creates an "immeasurable void" for everyone who knew him.

McBride Worked for MDHHS, Had Passion for Helping Others

Adam McBride, Mark's younger brother, spoke about their close relationship and Mark's dedication to helping others. Adam works at a Berrien County Vineyard and said Mark was involved in almost every harvest with him.

"We were about two years apart, some people said we were Irish twins," Adam McBride told News Channel 3.

"He was my lifelong best friend growing up," Adam added.

Mark worked for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and always had a passion for helping others, according to Adam McBride. The brothers' bond strengthened over recent years, as Mark would help his brother out at the vineyard during harvest season.

"He was involved in almost every harvest that we had," Adam 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."

Investigation Ongoing, Police Ask for Tips

The case remains active as investigators work to identify all individuals in the suspect vehicle at the time of the crash.

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information about the suspect is asked to contact KDPS Criminal Investigations Division at 269-337-8139 or submit anonymous tips through Kalamazoo Silent Observer at 269-343-2100, via the P3Tips app, or online at kalamazoosilentobserver.com.

The Kalamazoo Forensics Crime Lab processed both the crash scene and the recovered vehicle for evidence, according to Fox 17 News.

Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Kalamazoo Resident

South Westnedge Avenue was closed for several hours between Axtell and Pioneer streets during the investigation, causing disruption to the Kalamazoo community.

The KDPS Criminal Investigations Division continues their work to identify the suspect(s) and bring closure to McBride's family.

"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 said in their statement.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and out of respect for that process, the family is unable to share additional details at this time.

Anyone with information is encouraged to come forward to help solve this tragic case.