Family members say Billy Grooms suffered catastrophic injuries while trying to help a young woman during an alleged attack.
HILLSBORO, Ohio — An Ohio husband and father who stepped in to help a young woman during an alleged strangulation at a gas station has died after spending days on life support, according to family members and local authorities.
Billy Grooms, 49, was hailed as a hero by relatives and by the woman he tried to protect. The incident has drawn widespread attention in southern Ohio as investigators continue reviewing the events that left Grooms with severe injuries. Family members said his actions likely saved the young woman’s life, while police continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the assault and Grooms’ death.
The events unfolded early on May 31 at a gas station in Hillsboro. According to family members and court records cited by local media, Grooms was at the station with his son when they saw a young woman being attacked. Angela Osborn, Grooms’ sister-in-law, said he approached the suspect and told him to let the woman go. Authorities allege the suspect had grabbed the woman by the neck during the confrontation. Family members said the encounter escalated when the suspect entered a pickup truck and struck Grooms. Emergency responders rushed him to a hospital, where doctors treated multiple broken bones and a traumatic brain injury. Despite intensive medical care, relatives said physicians eventually informed them that recovery was unlikely. Grooms remained on life support for several days as family members gathered at his bedside.
Investigators say the suspect, identified in court documents as Javen Meadows, 22, faces charges related to the assault on the woman. Court records indicate Meadows allegedly followed a former girlfriend to the location before the confrontation occurred. Authorities allege he grabbed a woman by the neck, threw her to the ground, and assaulted her before returning to his vehicle. Officials have said additional charges could be considered as the investigation continues. The exact sequence of events leading to Grooms being run over remains under review. Hillsboro police have not publicly released a complete investigative report, and several details remain unresolved. Authorities have also not publicly disclosed whether prosecutors will pursue charges directly connected to Grooms’ death. Investigators continue gathering witness statements and reviewing available evidence.
The case has resonated throughout the community because of the circumstances surrounding Grooms’ actions. Friends and relatives described him as a devoted husband, father and provider who routinely helped others. Family members said he leaves behind his wife and two sons. The woman involved in the assault said she believes Grooms’ intervention prevented a far worse outcome. In a statement reported by local media, she called him a hero and said she would remain grateful for the rest of her life. Community members responded by sharing messages of support and contributing to fundraising efforts established to help the family with expenses. Loved ones said the financial assistance is especially important because Grooms was the family’s primary source of income.
As doctors determined that recovery was no longer possible, family members focused on honoring Grooms’ final wishes. Relatives said he was a registered organ donor and that plans were made for organ donation after life support measures ended. Osborn said Grooms had always tried to help others and that his donations would allow him to continue saving lives even after death. Hospitals often conduct honor walks for organ donors, allowing staff and loved ones to recognize their contributions before donation procedures begin. Family members said that prospect provided a measure of comfort during an otherwise devastating period. The investigation itself remains active, and officials have not announced a timetable for any additional charging decisions or court proceedings.
Friends described Grooms as selfless and compassionate, qualities they said were evident in his final act. Amy Main, a family friend, said his death was especially painful because he was attempting to help someone in danger. Relatives echoed that sentiment, saying they continue struggling to comprehend how a routine stop at a gas station ended in tragedy. The woman involved in the assault has also become a prominent voice in the aftermath, repeatedly crediting Grooms with protecting her during a terrifying encounter. Community support has continued to grow as residents share condolences and memories of a man many now regard as a local hero. The story has sparked conversations about courage, intervention and the risks sometimes faced by people who choose to help strangers.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing. Family members are mourning Grooms’ death while preparing for organ donation arrangements and awaiting further developments from law enforcement and prosecutors in the weeks ahead.
Author note: Last updated June 7, 2026.