Cincinnati police are looking for a hit-and-run driver who took off after an early-morning crash at the intersection of Findlay and Linn streets in the West End that left one person injured. The victim was taken to a hospital and is expected to recover, officers said. The driver ran from the wreck and has not been found, and detectives are also trying to determine whether the vehicle involved was stolen.
What police have said so far
Police told WLWT they are searching for the driver who ran from the crash and that one person was transported to the hospital. As reported by WCPO, crew members on scene saw a vehicle being towed near Charlie Lou's, and officers said the struck driver suffered minor injuries. WLWT's reporting also notes that investigators are looking into whether the car that caused the crash was stolen.
Police asking for tips
The Cincinnati Police Department is asking anyone with video, photos or information about the crash to contact detectives so they can identify the driver and the vehicle. The city's 311 page lists the CPD non-emergency line at 311 or 513-765-1212, and the Greater Cincinnati Crime Stoppers tip line at 513-352-3040 for anonymous tips, according to the city's information page.
Why detectives want to know if the car was stolen
Investigators' interest in who owns the vehicle ties into a wider jump in auto thefts and so-called relay attacks that have hit the region in recent years. Spectrum News and other local outlets have documented how thieves use technology and opportunistic tactics to steal cars, which can complicate cases like this and stretch police resources.
Possible charges if driver is found
Under Ohio law, leaving the scene of an accident that causes injury can bring criminal charges. Ohio Revised Code Section 4549.02 requires drivers involved in crashes on public roads to stop and provide identifying information, and failing to do so can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on how serious the injuries are, as outlined in the Ohio Revised Code.
Authorities have not publicly identified the driver they are seeking. This story will be updated if police release more details or name a suspect. Anyone with information is asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers.
