Tragic Hit-and-Run in Scarborough Claims Life of 59-Year-Old Howard Gribbin; Police Seek Driver Responsible
SCARBOROUGH, ME — A community is grieving, and police are urgently seeking answers after a tragic hit-and-run crash claimed the life of 59-year-old Howard Gribbin in the early morning hours of Friday, June 28, 2025. The fatal collision occurred shortly before 4:00 a.m. on Route 1 South near Southgate Road, a typically quiet stretch of road that turned into the scene of a heartbreaking loss.
According to the Scarborough Police Department, officers responded to a report of a person struck by a vehicle around 3:50 a.m. Upon arrival, emergency personnel discovered Gribbin lying critically injured on the roadside. Despite the immediate efforts of first responders and paramedics, Gribbin was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have confirmed that the vehicle involved fled the scene without stopping, leaving behind no immediate witnesses or vehicle description. Investigators are now working tirelessly to identify the driver and determine the circumstances that led to the deadly crash.
Remembering Howard Gribbin
Howard Gribbin, a long-time resident of southern Maine, is being remembered as a gentle, compassionate man who lived a quiet life and cared deeply about his family, neighbors, and community. Friends describe him as someone who was always willing to lend a hand, offer a kind word, or share a moment of wisdom.
He worked for many years in maintenance and landscaping and was known locally for his strong work ethic and humble demeanor. Those who knew him say he loved the outdoors, appreciated the simple things in life, and valued honesty, loyalty, and kindness above all.
“Howard was a good man,” said longtime friend and co-worker Sam Jeffers. “He didn’t have much, but he gave what he could. He looked out for people. To die like this… it’s just senseless.”
Gribbin lived alone in a small home not far from where the crash occurred. It’s believed he may have been walking along the shoulder of Route 1 when he was struck. The exact reason for his presence at that location in the early morning hours is still under investigation.
A Tragic Crime
The hit-and-run has left Scarborough residents both heartbroken and outraged. Police have labeled the crash a felony hit-and-run, and the investigation is being led by the Scarborough Police Department’s Accident Reconstruction Unit with assistance from the Maine State Police.
Investigators are asking local businesses and homeowners in the area near Route 1 South and Southgate Road to review any surveillance or dashcam footage from between 3:30 and 4:30 a.m. Friday morning. They are especially interested in identifying any vehicle that may have been traveling southbound on Route 1 during that time.
“We are following every lead, and we’re committed to finding the individual responsible,” said Scarborough Police Chief Mark Holmquist. “Leaving the scene of an accident, especially one that results in death, is not just illegal—it’s inhumane.”
Police have also issued a public plea: if you were driving in the area at the time or saw anything unusual, no matter how small or insignificant it might seem, please come forward. Even minor details—such as tire marks, a broken mirror, or a damaged vehicle spotted nearby—could help identify the driver.
Community Response
The Scarborough community has rallied in the wake of the tragedy. Local churches and neighborhood groups have held informal memorials and prayer circles in Howard’s honor. One local café where Howard was a regular customer displayed a small memorial with flowers, candles, and a photo of him taken just weeks ago.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by Gribbin’s niece to help cover funeral expenses and raise awareness about pedestrian safety. The page, titled Justice for Howard, calls for accountability and change in how hit-and-run cases are handled in Maine.
“Howard was taken from us in an act of cowardice,” wrote his niece, Lisa Gribbin. “He deserved to be treated like a human being. We are asking for the public’s help in bringing the driver to justice and making sure no other family goes through this pain.”
A Call for Justice
As of Sunday morning, police have not named any suspects or released details about the possible vehicle involved. Investigators continue to canvass the area and are urging anyone with tips to call the Scarborough Police Tip Line at (207) 730-4300 or submit information anonymously through the department’s online portal.
The fatal crash has also reignited conversations about pedestrian safety and early morning traffic regulations on Maine’s roadways. Several local officials have indicated a willingness to consider new signage, lighting, or designated walking paths to protect pedestrians.
Howard Gribbin’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of how fragile life can be — and how devastating one person’s decision to flee responsibility can become. The community of Scarborough stands united in mourning, but also in the pursuit of justice.
May Howard’s memory be honored with accountability, and may those responsible for his death be found and held to account.