Urgent Update: Pickup Driver Strikes Protesters, Claims Innocence

UPDATE: A 77-year-old man is under scrutiny after allegedly striking a 53-year-old woman during a protest in Jackson Township, Ohio, on October 21, 2023, before fleeing the scene. Witnesses report that he veered off the road in his 2023 Ford F-150 pickup, hitting demonstrators protesting against former President Donald Trump.

The incident occurred at a protest near North Park, where thousands gathered as part of a nationwide demonstration against the administration’s policies. This mass protest saw participation from over 7 million people across more than 2,600 events in the United States.

Authorities confirmed that the injured woman was treated at a nearby hospital for what are believed to be minor injuries, including a leg injury. Witnesses described the crash as alarming, with demonstrators expressing concern for the victim’s safety. “It could have been a lot worse,” said Lorraine Wilburn, a protester who captured the truck’s license plate as it sped away.

In an interview, the driver insisted he did not target the protesters. “I don’t even remember it happening,” he claimed. “It wasn’t anything like on purpose.” He further stated that police had given him a “total thumbs-up,” absolving him of any wrongdoing. However, Jackson Township Police Chief Mark J. Brink refuted this, stating that no such conversation occurred and that the investigation is still ongoing.

Witnesses have provided crucial evidence, including photographs of the truck, which led police and state troopers to the driver’s home in Jackson Township. The authorities are consulting with the Massillon City Prosecutor’s Office regarding potential charges.

The incident highlights the growing tensions surrounding political protests in the U.S. as citizens exercise their right to demonstrate. The injured protester, who was reported to have raised her fist in defiance after the collision, is recovering but remains in the spotlight as investigations continue.

As this situation develops, officials are urging anyone with additional information or footage to come forward. The community is on edge, grappling with the implications of violence at peaceful demonstrations.

Stay tuned for more updates as police continue their investigation into this troubling incident.