The small community of Pataskala, Ohio, is reeling from the heartbreaking loss of Scott Romine, a man affectionately known as “Decker Scott” among friends and locals. On Monday, December 16, 2024, Romine tragically died by suicide at the Kroger location on East Broad Street following a police chase, leaving friends, family, and residents grappling with grief, shock, and unanswered questions. Authorities confirmed the incident occurred after a pursuit earlier in the day, which ended in the Kroger parking lot where Romine took his own life.
While the exact circumstances surrounding the police chase have not been fully disclosed, officials are investigating the events that led to the devastating outcome. The tragedy has sent waves of sadness and reflection through the Pataskala community, igniting conversations about mental health, crisis support, and the struggles faced by individuals dealing with personal hardships. Scott Romine, known locally as “Decker Scott,” was a familiar face in Pataskala, a small town that prides itself on its close-knit community and neighborly bonds.
Friends, acquaintances, and community members described him as a man with complexities and layers, someone who navigated his share of challenges yet still found ways to connect with those around him. “Decker was someone who made you stop and think. He could make you laugh, make you pause, or just make you feel seen,” shared a longtime friend. “He had struggles, and those who knew him knew he carried a lot on his shoulders, but he also had a way of brightening a room when you least expected it.”
Another local resident added, “Decker was one of us. He belonged to this town, and his loss has left a hole in our hearts. We’re devastated.” The incident began earlier in the day when police engaged in a pursuit involving Romine. While details about the initial reason for the chase remain limited, law enforcement officials have confirmed that the pursuit ended in the parking lot of the Kroger grocery store at 350 East Broad Street, where Romine reportedly died by suicide. Authorities secured the scene immediately, and the Kroger store was temporarily closed to allow investigators to process the area.
The tragic conclusion of the event has prompted widespread mourning and a renewed focus on mental health awareness in Pataskala. “This is a tragedy on every level,” said a local mental health advocate. “It’s a stark reminder that so many people are fighting battles we can’t see. We need to do more as a society, as a community, and as individuals to make sure those who are struggling have the resources, understanding, and support they need.” In response to the incident, grief counselors and crisis support teams have been made available to local residents through community services.
Local leaders, including Pataskala officials and neighborhood advocates, have emphasized the importance of reaching out to loved ones, checking in on friends, and creating spaces where conversations about mental health can take place openly and without stigma. “If someone is struggling, I want them to know there’s help,” urged a community leader. “This tragedy cannot be in vain. Scott’s story reminds us how fragile life can be, and how important it is to take mental health seriously.
Whether it’s a neighbor, a friend, or even yourself—there are people who care and who can help.” The Kroger location at 350 East Broad Street has since reopened, but the impact of the event lingers heavily among employees, shoppers, and residents who frequent the area. Store management issued a statement expressing their condolences to the family of Scott Romine and to all those affected by the tragedy. “We are deeply saddened by the events that occurred outside our store, and our hearts go out to everyone impacted.
We are working with authorities and offering support to our associates during this difficult time,” read the statement. In the days following the tragedy, social media has been flooded with messages of grief, support, and remembrance for Romine. Friends and family members have shared stories of their time with “Decker Scott,” celebrating his life while mourning his loss.
“Scott had his struggles, like all of us, but he also had a big heart,” one post read. “I’ll always remember the laughs we shared, the conversations we had, and the person he was beneath it all. Rest in peace, my friend.” Another message shared a more urgent plea: “If anyone out there is feeling hopeless, please reach out for help. Don’t carry it alone. There are people who will listen, who will care. Scott’s story doesn’t have to be anyone else’s.” A candlelight vigil has been organized by members of the Pataskala community to honor Romine’s memory and provide a space for collective grieving.
Scheduled to take place outside the Kroger location where the tragedy occurred, the vigil will include moments of silence, shared prayers, and words of remembrance from those who knew him. Organizers say the event is not only about honoring Scott but also about encouraging open conversations around mental health and offering solidarity to those who may be struggling. “We want to come together as a community and say, ‘You are not alone.’ That’s what Scott would have wanted—for us to care for one another,” said one organizer.
The tragic death of Scott Romine has highlighted larger issues surrounding mental health, particularly the struggles faced by individuals who may feel isolated or overwhelmed. In the wake of this tragedy, advocates have called for increased access to mental health resources, more community support systems, and ongoing education to destigmatize seeking help during times of crisis. National resources such as the Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) and local crisis intervention services have been highlighted as critical tools for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress. “The hardest part is reaching out,” said a mental health counselor based in Pataskala. “But there are so many people ready to listen and help.
We need to keep spreading that message until no one feels like they’re out of options.” Scott Romine’s death has left an indelible mark on Pataskala—a community bound by shared grief and a determination to turn tragedy into action. As friends, family, and neighbors mourn his loss, they also seek to ensure that his story inspires greater compassion, understanding, and support for others who may be struggling in silence. “Scott’s life mattered, and his loss will not be forgotten,” said a close friend.
“If his story can help even one person know they’re not alone, then we’ve honored his memory in the best way we can.” Funeral arrangements and obituary details for Scott Romine will be shared by his family at a later date, as they navigate this difficult period of grief and loss. The Pataskala community stands united in their support for the Romine family and in their commitment to raising awareness about mental health challenges.
For anyone experiencing emotional distress or thoughts of suicide, immediate help is available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988 or reaching out to local mental health resources. As Pataskala grieves, it also begins the hard but necessary work of healing, reflecting, and supporting one another through this tragedy.
