Urgent: 77-Year-Old Driver Hits Protesters, Claims No Intent

URGENT UPDATE: A 77-year-old man is under investigation after allegedly striking a protester with his pickup truck during a demonstration in Jackson Township, Ohio on November 3, 2023. The man, driving a 2023 Ford F-150, claims he did not intend to hit anyone as he drove off the road and collided with a 53-year-old woman, leaving her injured.

Witnesses reported that thousands gathered near North Park for a nationwide protest against former President Donald Trump and his policies. Organizers estimate that over 7 million people participated in more than 2,600 events across the United States, making this a significant political moment.

The incident occurred when the man allegedly veered onto the sidewalk, striking the protester and then fleeing the scene. The injured woman was taken to a nearby hospital with suspected minor injuries, including a possible leg fracture. “She put her fist in the air and said ‘I’m all right,’ but I think she might have broken her leg,” stated demonstrator Lorraine Wilburn, who captured the truck’s license plate as it drove away.

In an interview with the Canton Repository, the driver expressed confusion about the incident, stating, “I don’t even remember it happening. It wasn’t anything like on purpose.” He further claimed that police gave him a “total thumbs-up” and advised him not to worry about the incident. However, Jackson Township Police Chief Mark J. Brink refuted this, confirming that no such conversation occurred.

Authorities are currently consulting with the Massillon City Prosecutor’s Office regarding potential charges, although the driver has not yet been formally charged. Witnesses believe the act was intentional, with one stating, “It was definitely on purpose. He went up on the curb.”

As this story develops, the community is left questioning the motives behind the driver’s actions and the implications for protest safety. The conversation around the accountability of individuals during politically charged events is likely to intensify in the coming days.

Stay tuned for updates as police continue their investigation and more information becomes available.