COLUMBUS, Ohio — Kurtis Tunnell, former chief counsel for Governor George V. Voinovich, died early Saturday morning after he was struck by a car while riding his bicycle in Franklin County.
He was 58.
According to WSYX-ABC 6, the incident happened shortly after 5 a.m. in the 8400 block of Scioto Darby Road in Brown Township.
Tunnel was struck by a 31-year-old man driving a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe, WSYX-ABC 6 reported.
Tunnell was transported to a nearby hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The Hyundai’s driver was taken into custody following the crash. Authorities said alcohol may have contributed to the crash, according to WSYX-ABC 6.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued the following statement on Twitter:
"Fran and I were shocked and deeply saddened to learn that our friend, Kurt Tunnell, died today. I first got to know Kurt when I was Lt. Governor and he was Chief Counsel for Governor George V. Voinovich. Kurt provided excellent legal counsel, and the governor and I relied on his outstanding legal skills combined with his in-depth knowledge of public policy. After his government service, Kurt was managing partner at the Bricker & Eckler Law Firm where he headed their government relations practice, which included representing the Ohio Republican Party. Kurt served his community, his state, and his fellow man, and we will miss him greatly. Fran and I send our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Julie, and his children."
