Muskingum County • April 1, 2025
Good morning, Muskingum County. In an extraordinary mix-up that sounds straight from a television drama, 25-year-old Christian Black found himself in the unusual position of being very much alive despite police reports of his death. The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office is now facing questions about how such a significant error occurred, while Black remains hospitalized at Miami Valley Hospital following an incident that happened after his arrest for an alleged car theft.
Our community is also reflecting on lives well-lived as we remember two remarkable individuals. Jillene "Jill" Shaw Hoberg, who passed away at 90, leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service in Coshocton County's courthouses and thoughtful gestures like sending cards and preserving newspaper clippings of loved ones' achievements. Similarly, Jon Els, a U.S. Air Force veteran and civic leader who passed just shy of his 90th birthday, is remembered for his contributions to the Rotary, Lions Club, and his adventures with his wife of 67 years.
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🕊️ Beloved courthouse clerk Jillene "Jill" Shaw Hoberg leaves lasting legacy. The Coshocton native, who passed away on March 27, 2025, at age 90, dedicated her career to service in all Coshocton County Courthouses. After retiring as deputy clerk, she continued part-time work at Probate Court, demonstrating her commitment to local governance. A Roscoe High School graduate and Methodist Church member, Jill was known for her thoughtful gestures, including sending cards and laminating newspaper articles celebrating loved ones' achievements. She is survived by her daughters, grandchildren, and brother, with a private graveside service planned and a future celebration of her life.
🚨 Man reported dead by police is actually still alive. Christian Black, a 25-year-old from Zanesville, was incorrectly announced as deceased by the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office despite being alive in Miami Valley Hospital. The confusion arose after Black was arrested following an alleged car theft, then reportedly injured himself while in custody at the Montgomery County Jail. Multiple agencies provided conflicting information about Black's status, with the coroner's office confirming they received reports of his death but don't have custody of his body. Family members have not spoken publicly about the situation as various law enforcement agencies face questions about the erroneous death report.
🕊️ Jon Els leaves behind a legacy of kindness and service. The West Lafayette resident passed away peacefully at age 89, just one day before his 90th birthday. A U.S. Air Force veteran and respected foreman at several companies, Els was known for his civic involvement with the Rotary, Lions Club, and Chamber of Commerce. Following retirement, he and his wife Marge (who passed in 2024 after 67 years of marriage) enjoyed traveling in their RV and participating in the Coshocton Campers Club. Els is survived by his three children, seven grandchildren, and fourteen great-grandchildren.
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