ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The Rochester and Holley communities are grieving the heartbreaking loss of 69-year-old Mark Morreall, whose life was tragically cut short following a devastating multi-vehicle crash and fire inside the parking garage at Rochester General Hospital.
The Rochester Police Department (RPD) confirmed on October 31, 2025, that Morreall was the driver in the fatal crash. After an initial investigation, authorities determined that the incident was accidental and that no criminal activity was involved.
According to police reports, the tragedy unfolded when Morreall’s vehicle, while traveling on the second floor of the hospital’s parking structure, struck six parked cars before coming to rest. Moments later, the vehicle caught fire, engulfing the area in flames and heavy smoke.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but by the time they arrived, the vehicle was completely ablaze. Lieutenant Jackie Sierra, Public Information Officer for the Rochester Fire Department, said that six companies and 24 firefighters were deployed to battle the intense fire. Crews worked quickly and heroically in the confined space to keep the flames from spreading to the rest of the structure.
“It took incredible coordination to control this fire safely,” Lt. Sierra said. “Our teams worked tirelessly under very difficult conditions to protect the integrity of the building and ensure everyone else’s safety.”
Once the fire was extinguished, firefighters discovered the driver — later identified as Mark Morreall — deceased inside the vehicle.
The Rochester Police Department’s Arson Task Force, led by Captain George Bello, immediately launched an investigation to determine what caused the crash.
“We are working to determine the exact circumstances,” Bello stated. “Given that this occurred in a hospital setting, there is a possibility that a medical emergency may have contributed to the incident.”
Investigators later revealed that a total of nine vehicles were damaged — six from the initial collision and three more from the resulting flames and debris. After a detailed structural inspection, engineers confirmed that the parking garage remained structurally sound, though parts of the second floor will remain closed for safety assessments.
Hospital officials emphasized that Rochester General Hospital remains fully operational and that no damage extended to hospital facilities. Visitors and staff were advised to use the Carter Street Garage and to avoid the affected area while cleanup and inspections continue.
“Our hearts go out to the family of the individual involved in this tragic incident,” hospital representatives said in a statement. “We deeply appreciate the quick response from the Rochester Fire and Police Departments for their professionalism and care during this difficult event.”
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, with detectives reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to build a clearer picture of what happened in the moments before the crash. The process, they said, could take several weeks or months.
Meanwhile, those who knew Mark Morreall are remembering him as a kind, humble, and compassionate man who radiated warmth and positivity wherever he went. Friends and neighbors in Holley describe him as someone who “never met a stranger” and who always went out of his way to help others.
“Mark was one of those people who could make you feel at ease the moment you met him,” said one longtime friend. “He had a gentle soul, a warm smile, and a genuine heart.”
Known for his humility and sense of humor, Mark was deeply loved by family and respected by all who crossed his path. His sudden passing has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who cherished him.
As tributes continue to pour in across Monroe County, the community is reminded of the fragility of life — and of the quiet strength and kindness that Mark embodied every day.
“He was one of those rare souls who made the world around him better just by being in it,” another mourner shared. “His spirit will continue to live on through the love and goodness he gave so freely.”
Funeral arrangements for Mark Morreall will be announced by his family in the coming days.
Though his life ended far too soon, his memory will forever live on in the hearts of family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Rest in Peace, Mark Morreall (1956–2025).
Your kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit will forever be remembered and deeply missed.
