Laurie McHugh, Union Chill CEO & co-founder, killed in car crash

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Laurie McHugh, the co-founder and chief executive officer of Hunterdon County’s first recreational cannabis dispensary, is being remembered as a visionary after the 58-year-old was killed in a car crash in Pennsylvania.

McHugh, who was also a longtime councilwoman in New Hope, Pa., died just after 1 p.m. Aug. 21 at St. Mary’s Hospital after sustaining various injuries when her Audi collided with a tractor-trailer on Durham Road in Buckingham. The operator of the truck was treated for injuries, then released from the hospital, according to authorities.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Buckingham Police Department and The Bucks County District Attorney’s Office.

In a statement the following day, Union Chill said, “The entire Union Chill family is filled with sorrow as we come to terms with this unexpected loss. Laurie’s departure leaves a profound void in our hearts.”

“Laurie’s impact extended far beyond our organization. Her involvement as the Vice President of the New Hope Borough Council and her co-founding role in the Bucks County Dragon Boat Association showcased her exceptional dedication to the community. These endeavors reflected her unwavering passion, experience, and vitality, which she also channeled into the establishment of Union Chill Cannabis Co.,” the company said. “During this challenging time, our thoughts are with Laurie’s family, friends, and everyone who was lucky enough to have crossed paths with her.”

The New Jersey Cannabis Trade Associations shared its condolences with McHugh’s family, friends and colleagues, saying, “She will be greatly missed.”

“Laurie had an incredible spirit and her legacy will live on through Union Chill and the cherish memories we had with Laurie,” the NJCTA added.

A memorial celebration for McHugh will be held at a later date, according to her obituary. 

New Hope officials also released a statement, expressing “shock and profound sadness” over McHugh’s death.

After initially being elected to the city council in 2016, McHugh “earned a reputation as a thoughtful, fair, and professional representative” of the community’s diverse residents and businesses,” the governing body recalled.

In addition to serving as council vice president, McHugh was liaison to the Shade Tree Commission and Great New Hope Chamber of Commerce.  A champion for small businesses, McHugh was credited in taking the lead to help restaurants and boutiques find innovative ways to operate during the pandemic, such as “contactless” options, borough officials said.

Prior to becoming involved in local government, McHugh’s background worked in real estate and property management.

When Union Chill opened its doors in June, McHugh described it as “an incredible journey,” saying that the business believes “in the power of the plant to change peoples’ lives and are passionate about the work we do and the role we play in our community.”

She added, “By combining integrity, social good and economic success to uplift and inform the decisions we make, we look forward to rising to the challenge of creating a more sustainable, vibrant cannabis environment for all.”