FAIRVIEW TWP — Brandon Ellenberger's mother fondly recalls her son's passions and distinctive personality in the aftermath of his death while crossing the road near his house.

"He was a one-of-a-kind character," said Karyn Ellenberger.

Her 20-year-old son died Saturday night after he was struck by an SUV as he crossed Haysville Road at 10:48 p.m. Saturday.

Karyn Ellenberger said her family still feels the sting of their loss.

"I still haven't accepted it," Ellenberger said.

She said her son didn't deserve to die so young.

"You shouldn't bury your kids," Ellenberger said. "This is wrong."

She is comforted that the death happened quickly.

"He didn't suffer," Ellenberger said. "That's the only thing I'm thankful for."

Butler state police report the Mazda Tribute driven by Machelle Slagle, age unavailable, was southbound on the road when Ellenberger walked from the shoulder of the road into the lane.

Police are investigating the cause of the accident.

Making the accident more tragic is the family knows the driver.

Brandon was a 2010 graduate of Moniteau High School. He previously attended Karns City High School, where Slagle works as a secretary.