The community of Fremont, Ohio, is mourning the devastating loss of Malachi Moreno, 23, whose life ended tragically in what authorities have confirmed to be a murder-suicide following a single-vehicle crash in Salem Township.

The heartbreaking incident, which also claimed the life of Alexis Pence, 24, has left family members, friends, and the broader community grappling with sorrow, shock, and unanswered questions.

According to the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched around 6:41 p.m. on September 20 to the 10000 block of West Oak Harbor Southeast Road, where they discovered a vehicle overturned on its roof following a rollover crash. Inside were two unresponsive occupants — Malachi and Alexis — both of Fremont.

Despite immediate life-saving efforts from emergency personnel and bystanders, Alexis Pence was pronounced dead at the scene. Malachi was transported to Magruder Hospital in Port Clinton, where he was later pronounced deceased.

As investigators worked to piece together the circumstances, they made a chilling discovery: both individuals had sustained gunshot wounds, and a handgun was recovered from within the vehicle.

September 24, authorities confirmed that the incident was being treated as a murder-suicide. The news sent ripples of grief throughout the region, leaving loved ones stunned by the sudden and violent end to two young lives.

The crash scene was a sobering sight — the vehicle upside down, its windows shattered, surrounded by first responders. “In removing the victims, we received assistance from EMS, fire, passers-by, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol,” a spokesperson from the sheriff’s office shared.

“They were able to extricate them from the vehicle by being able to open the doors.” The coordinated effort involved multiple agencies, including Mid-County EMS, Portage Fire, Oak Harbor Police Department, the Village of Oak Harbor, the Ottawa County Coroner’s Office, and Greer’s Towing.

Born and raised in Fremont, Malachi was known by many as a friendly, outgoing young man who had dreams and ambitions for the future. Friends remember his quick smile and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He had a close-knit circle of loved ones who are now struggling to come to terms with the unimaginable circumstances of his death.

This tragedy is a painful reminder of the complexities of mental health and the importance of seeking help in times of crisis. As the investigation continues, authorities and community leaders are urging those who may be struggling — or who suspect someone they know may be — to reach out for support.

The loss of Malachi Moreno and Alexis Pence is being felt deeply throughout Ottawa County and beyond. Their lives, though tragically cut short, touched many, and their memories will remain with those who knew and loved them. As family and friends grieve, they are left to honor their memory by cherishing the good times, remembering the laughter, and holding one another a little closer.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of violence or self-harm, please seek help. In the U.S., you can dial 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7. No one has to face their struggles alone.