The Wilmington Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal single vehicle accident wherein a passenger fled the scene of the crash.
According to officials, the accident occurred on State Route 138 around 7:45 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19.
A 2005 Ford pickup was traveling southbound on SR-138 when the vehicle ran off the side of the road and struck a guardrail. The vehicle continued down the embankment and eventually overturned.
Paul Stewart, 32, was ejected from the vehicle. He was transported to Highland District Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Another vehicle occupant fled the scene on foot. Police say that Jason Cowman, 21, is a person of interest as they believe he was in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Authorities are also investigating the seating positions in the vehicle at the time of the crash.
Anyone with information about the crash, or who may know the location of Cowman, is asked to contact their local police department of Wilmington Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Although this type of accident may not typically be considered a hit-and-run, if the authorities can verify that Cowman was the driver during the crash, he may be charged with the crime. Many drivers tend to flee because they were driving while impaired, were unlicensed or possible for fear of being charged with a crime such as a stolen vehicle.
The auto accident lawyers at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy believe that drivers have a duty to stop at the scene of an accident and render aid, or call the police to report the accident. When a driver or passenger fails to do this, they should be held accountable for their actions.
If you have been injured in a hit-and-run accident, a personal injury lawyer from our firm can help you get the justice you deserve.