LORAIN — A 22-year-old man has been arrested in connection with an Aug. 10 hit-skip at E. 32nd Street and Charleston Avenue that left a 24-year-old pedestrian with serious injuries, according to a Lorain Police report. Investigators say video and traffic-camera images helped identify a black two-tone Ford F-150 King Ranch with Texas plate. The driver, identified as Rafael Alvarez Garnica, allegedly left the scene and later attempted to repair damage to the truck.
The pedestrian suffered a skull fracture, a brain bleed, a broken nose, and rib fractures, the report states. He was transported for treatment and later released home.
Police say Alvarez Garnica admitted driving during the crash and leaving because he did not have a license. The police report mentions that officers were unable to confirm Alvarez Garnica’s residency status at the time of the investigation.
Alvarez Garnica was booked into the Lorain County Jail and is being held without bond pending further court proceedings.
Charges listed in the report
- Leaving the scene of an accident (ORC 4549.02)
- Tampering with evidence (ORC 2921.12)
- Right-of-way at stop sign (ORC 4511.43)
- Operating a vehicle without a valid license (ORC 4510.12(A)(1))
Affidavits and citations were forwarded to the prosecutor, according to the report. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.