Smithfield man arrested for hit-and-run crash in Idaho
Oct 26, 2022, 5:17 PM
FILE (KSL TV)
(KSL TV)
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Idaho — A 33-year-old man from Smithfield has been arrested after he allegedly hit a bicyclist in Franklin County, Idaho, and then left the scene.
The crash happened near the intersection of S. State Street and E. 4800 South the night of Sunday, Oct. 16.
According to a press release from Idaho State Police, the 25-year-old bicyclist was seriously injured and later airlifted for medical attention.
“Based on the investigation, troopers believed a 2015-2018 Volkswagen Jetta sustained extensive front-end damage when it struck the bicyclist before fleeing the area,” the release stated.
Police then requested public assistance to identify and locate the Jetta.
Following an investigation, troopers determined the involved vehicle belonged to 33-year-old Christopher James Ward of Smithfield, Utah.
“Working with the Franklin County Prosecutor’s Office, an arrest warrant was issued for Ward,” the release stated.
On the morning of Oct. 26, Ward was arrested by the Smithfield Police Department for felony leaving the scene of an injury crash and felony concealment of evidence.
Ward is currently in the Cache County Jail in Utah, where he awaits extradition to Idaho.
Christopher James Ward, 33, of Smithfield, Utah, was arrested Wednesday after he allegedly hit a bicyclist in Idaho and then left the scene. (Cache County Sheriff’s Office)
Police say his vehicle has been seized and returned to Idaho.
“The bicyclist was transferred to a hospital in Utah, where he remains in critical condition. No medical updates will be provided,” the release stated.
Anyone with additional information about the incident has been asked to call Idaho State Police at 208-239-9800.
