Updated Feb.1 at 10:30 p.m.

A retired Kent State professor died after being hit while crossing Fairchild Avenue at the Woodard Avenue intersection Tuesday night.

Gordon F. Vars, 88, of Kent was transported to Akron City Hospital and pronounced dead by hospital staff, according to police.

Vars was a professor emeritus of teaching, leadership and curriculum studies at Kent State.

A university spokesperson released the following statement regarding Vars’ death.

“The Kent State University community mourns the loss of one of our own, Professor Emeritus of Teaching, Leadership and Curriculum Studies Gordon Vars. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

The name of the driver will be released when a full investigation is done. Alcohol is not a suspected factor in the accident.

Original:

A retired Kent State professor died after being hit while crossing Fairchild Avenue at the Woodard Avenue intersection Tuesday night.

Gordon F. Vars, 88, of Kent was transported to Akron City Hospital and pronounced dead by hospital staff, according to police.

The name of the driver will be released when a full investigation is done. Alcohol is not a suspected factor in the accident.

Vars was a professor emeritus of teaching, leadership and curriculum studies at Kent State.

Check back to KentWired.com for more updates as they’re made available.

—Brad Tansey