Paradise in Mourning: A Life Taken Too Soon

PARADISE, California — The town of Paradise, California, is reeling from the heartbreaking loss of Troy Upton, a 34-year-old local resident whose life was tragically cut short in a devastating hit-and-run accident on Saturday evening, October 4, 2025. Troy, a beloved friend, son, and community member, was struck by a vehicle while crossing Skyway Avenue near the town’s center. Authorities have confirmed that the driver of the vehicle fled the scene, leaving Troy behind, and despite swift medical attention, he was pronounced dead shortly after the incident.

The town, known for its close-knit community, is in shock as they mourn the senseless and tragic loss of a man who had been an integral part of the Paradise area for over a decade. Troy’s family, friends, and coworkers are left to grapple with the reality that his vibrant and promising life was cut short far too soon.

A Beloved Member of the Paradise Community

Troy Upton was more than just a resident of Paradise—he was the heart and soul of the community. Known for his infectious smile and willingness to help anyone in need, Troy was the kind of person who made everyone around him feel valued. Whether it was offering a helping hand at the local community center or participating in neighborhood events, Troy was always there, contributing his time, energy, and heart to the betterment of those around him.

“Troy was one of those people who made life in Paradise a little brighter,” said Lori Matthews, a close friend and neighbor. “He had a way of making everyone feel like they mattered. He was a natural-born connector, and he would always go out of his way to support those he loved.”

Troy worked as a manager at a local hardware store, where he was known for his friendly demeanor and professional expertise. Colleagues describe him as dedicated and hardworking, always taking the time to mentor new employees and share his knowledge of the trade. “He was a friend to all of us. He had this unique ability to make you feel at ease, whether you were a customer or a co-worker,” said Chris Davenport, a coworker. “He didn’t just make the store better, he made our lives better.”

A Tragic Hit-and-Run: The Community Seeks Justice

As the investigation into the hit-and-run continues, the Paradise Police Department has launched a full search for the driver involved in the fatal accident. Authorities have released surveillance footage showing a dark-colored sedan fleeing the scene immediately after striking Troy, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward.

The incident has left the community grappling with anger, sorrow, and disbelief. “It’s hard to put into words what we’re feeling right now,” said John Upton, Troy’s father. “My son was taken from us in the blink of an eye, and the person who did this didn’t even have the decency to stop. We want justice, but we also want people to remember Troy for who he was: someone who cared deeply about his family and friends, and someone who made this world a better place just by being in it.”

A memorial for Troy has been set up outside the hardware store where he worked, with flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages of love and remembrance from friends, family, and the Paradise community. Plans for a public vigil are underway, and the town has expressed its commitment to supporting Troy’s family during this difficult time.

The loss of Troy Upton has left an unfillable void in the Paradise community. His kindness, generosity, and genuine nature touched the lives of all who knew him, and his tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life. While the search for justice continues, those who loved Troy are determined to honor his memory by living their lives with the same warmth and care he showed to others.

Troy’s untimely passing is a painful chapter in the town’s history, but his legacy of friendship, community, and love will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.