A beloved church leader in El Paso has died following a motorcycle crash that has left his congregation in shock and mourning.

Pastor Jason Owens, 49, was riding his Harley-Davidson in Montana Vista on Wednesday evening when a car ran a stop sign and fatally struck him, according to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, the Christian Post reported.

The incident happened around 7:15 p.m. on Krag Street, a northbound road in the Montana Vista area—a community on the eastern edge of El Paso County. Owens was hit by a Mercedes sedan that had been traveling east along Santiesteban Lane when it failed to yield at a stop sign.

Owens was rushed to a local hospital after the collision, but medical staff later confirmed he had died from his injuries. No other injuries were reported in the crash.

The driver of the Mercedes, whose identity has not been made public, remained at the scene. Authorities have said that the investigation is ongoing and did not state whether any charges will be filed.

Community Shocked by Sudden Loss

Pastor Owens was an integral part of The Rock Faith Center, a church community deeply affected by the tragic loss. Well known across El Paso for his uplifting spirit and devotion to service, Owens had touched many lives both within and beyond the congregation.

His death was confirmed on Wednesday evening after several church members saw photos online showing the wrecked motorcycle from the crash scene. One church leader noticed the images and grew concerned that the motorcycle might belong to Owens.

Senior Pastor C. Eric Hallback and others were alerted and soon contacted local authorities. They reached out to the hospital, followed by confirmation from the medical examiner's office, to verify the heartbreaking news.

Pastor’s Work Extended Far Beyond Church Walls

Those closest to Owens describe him as compassionate, faithful, and always ready with a word of encouragement or humor. A statement from The Rock Faith Center called him a "dedicated servant of God" and "a vital part of our church family."

"His unwavering faith, compassion, and love for the Lord touched the lives of everyone he encountered," the statement continued. It noted that he was someone anyone could turn to for support or uplifting conversation.

"He was that person anyone could talk to... This truly hurts,” the church wrote in its official remarks, asking for prayers and comfort for his friends and family during this painful time.

Faith Leader, Mentor, and Motorcycle Enthusiast

In addition to his spiritual leadership, Owens was active in mentoring youth and engaging with local agencies like Child Protective Services. His commitment to guiding and supporting young people was a major part of his ministry.

Outside the church, he was known to be a proud member of a motorcycle club and a longtime fan of the Philadelphia Eagles. His love for bikes and football often helped him connect with people from all walks of life.

Church leaders have emphasized how his ability to bridge communities made a lasting impact on the entire region. He played many roles—mentor, leader, and friend—to many who are now grieving his untimely passing.

Ongoing Investigation Leaves Questions Unanswered

As of now, the El Paso County Sheriff's Office has not announced any updates regarding possible charges or citations stemming from the crash. The role the Mercedes driver played in failing to yield remains a central focus in the investigation.

Law enforcement officials have not released details beyond the confirmation that the car did not stop at a marked intersection. Whether alcohol, distraction, or other factors were involved has not been confirmed.

The church and broader community await answers, hoping for clarity in the official findings while continuing to cope with a deep sense of loss.

Congregation Calls for Prayer and Healing

The Rock Faith Center has asked the public to keep Pastor Owens’ family and close friends in their thoughts and prayers. The statement from the church ended with a message of faith and hope, trusting that divine comfort would provide strength in the days ahead.

"We hold his family close in our hearts," the church wrote, "and trust that God’s comfort and grace will surround them now and forever."

For those who knew him, Pastor Owens wasn’t just a clergyman—he was a symbol of kindness, humor, and unwavering faith. His legacy, church members say, will continue through the lives he changed and the community he built.