Berks County pastor killed in motorcycle crash

BERN TWP., Pa. -- A Berks County pastor was killed and her husband, also a pastor, was badly hurt when the motorcycle they were on crashed over the weekend.

Lynn Koch was killed and her husband Bryan remains in the hospital with an amputated leg and internal injuries.

"It's so hard because so many people loved this family and this church. It's a shame, such a good person, such a good family," said parishioner Juan Rodriguez.

"I've been in this church for most of my life and there is no question this is the most difficult thing our church has ever had to face and endure," said executive pastor Scott Kramer.

Police say the couple was riding along Grange Road in Bern Township around 6 p.m. Sunday when an SUV struck them.

The husband and wife team had served Glad Tiding Church in Spring Township for nearly 30 years. Bryan has been a pastor with GT for more than 25 years, while Lynn was ordained just last month.

The GT community is several thousand strong and they are stunned.

"On a Sunday morning Bryan is on the stage preaching to thousands. On a Sunday morning, Lynn is in a office helping one person learn how to read," said Kramer.

Earlier in the day, the church had a special service for first responders. Later that night, some of those same people would be trying to help the couple.

"It seems unthinkable that something like this would occur. The hearts of our church and our people are bleeding right now," Kramer said.

Police say the investigation continues and no charges have been filed yet.

A special service for the couple will be held at the church at 7 p.m. on Wednesday night.