Justin Hurd Obituary, Wingate, Indiana Death: Fire Chief and EMT Has Died in Motorcycle Accident

The rural Indiana communities of Wingate and Newtown/Mellott are mourning the devastating loss of Justin Todd Hurd, who passed away on May 15, 2026, at the age of 32 following injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident involving a school bus on State Road 28 in Tippecanoe County. His sudden passing has left family members, friends, fellow first responders, and residents across the region grieving a life defined by service, humility, and unwavering dedication to others.

Born on June 15, 1993, in Lafayette, Indiana, Justin was the son of Joey Hurd and Amy Crane Hockenbury. From an early age, he was known for his steady presence, quiet determination, and willingness to step in whenever someone needed help. Those qualities followed him throughout his life and ultimately shaped his path into public service.

A 2012 graduate of Fountain Central High School, Justin entered emergency services shortly after turning 18 when he joined the Mellott Fire Department. What began as a young commitment to his community grew into a lifelong calling. Over the years, he became a respected and trusted figure within the department, eventually serving as Fire Chief. Colleagues say he embodied the values of leadership through action—showing up consistently, working without hesitation, and prioritizing the safety of others above all else.

Justin’s dedication extended beyond Mellott Fire Department. He also served with Coal Creek Fire & Rescue, responding to emergencies across the region. Fellow first responders remember him as dependable and composed under pressure, someone who could be counted on during the most critical moments. His presence on a scene brought reassurance to both teammates and those in need of care.

He further strengthened his commitment to helping others by earning his Advanced EMT certification and working full-time with Fountain County EMS for the past six years. In this role, Justin became known for his calm demeanor, clinical skill, and deep compassion for patients. Co-workers recall his ability to bring stability to chaotic situations and his consistent focus on delivering the highest standard of care.

Before fully dedicating himself to emergency medical services, Justin also worked for Ceres Solutions and ARCONIC in Lafayette, where he was recognized for his strong work ethic and reliability. Regardless of the role he held, those who worked alongside him describe a person who took pride in doing things the right way and supporting the people around him.

Outside of his professional life, Justin’s greatest pride was his family. He was a devoted father to his children—Kip, Kori, and Kodi Hurd—and found his deepest joy in being present for their lives. Whether coaching, attending events, or simply spending time together, he prioritized fatherhood above everything else. Those close to him say his children were the center of his world and the motivation behind so many of his choices.

Faith also played a meaningful role in his life. As a member of Sterling Christian Church, Justin found strength and grounding in his beliefs, which guided both his personal life and his service to others.

Friends remember him as kind, steady, and genuine—someone who did not seek attention but consistently earned respect through his actions. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, farm work, and time spent outdoors, often alongside friends and family. These moments reflected a simpler side of his life, where he found peace away from the demands of emergency service.

Justin is survived by his parents, siblings, grandparents, his girlfriend Rae-Ann Bushong and her daughter Tinsley, his children, nieces, nephews, extended family, and a wide circle of friends and colleagues who now carry forward his memory. His passing has left a profound void in the communities he served so faithfully.

As tributes continue across Indiana, many are remembering Justin Todd Hurd not only for his years of service as a firefighter and EMT, but for the steady kindness and commitment he brought to every part of his life. His legacy remains rooted in service, compassion, and the countless lives he helped protect.

He will be deeply missed, widely honored, and long remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.