Traffic Investigators Renew Call For Help In Identifying Hit-and-Run Driver (Photo) -12/04/24

RELEASE DATE:                  Dec. 4, 2024
CONTACT PERSON:            On-duty PIO
CASE NUMBER:                   23-52228
 

Gresham, Ore.—Traffic investigators are releasing additional video showing the driver and passengers involved in a hit-and-run crash in late 2023. A motorcyclist was critically injured by a hit-and-run driver on New Years Eve in Gresham. On Dec. 31, 2023, at approximately 10:30 p.m., Gresham police officers and medical personnel responded to a report of a traffic collision involving a red Chevy Sonic (similar to a Chevy Aveo) and a motorcycle on SE Division St. and SE 202 Ave. The driver of the Sonic rear-ended the rider, knocking him off his motorcycle, then ran over the rider before fleeing the scene. The motorcycle rider was transported to the hospital where he remained for more than a month.

The East Metro Vehicular Crimes Team (VCT) is investigating the case and initially released a video showing the suspect and a passenger abandoning the vehicle on a nearby side street. Traffic investigators are releasing additional video from a doorbell camera showing the suspect and passengers as they fled the scene. A passenger can be heard calling to another passenger “Gio,” or “Tio,” or something similar, as they encouraged another passenger to hurry up. 

Investigators found a receipt from an area liquor store in the suspect vehicle. They are releasing a photo of a person of interest obtained from the liquor store video surveillance system. 

The victim of the hit-and-run is still working to regain the use of his legs as the one-year anniversary of the crime approaches. “As someone who has seen video of the crash, I can say the victim is lucky to be alive,” Officer Adam Oblack stated. Oblack is the lead investigator on the case. “We’re hoping the release of additional video and photos will renew interest in the case and encourage someone to come forward to identify the suspect,” he added.

If anyone recognizes the suspect, passengers, or the person of interest from the liquor store, they are asked to call the Gresham Police Tip-Line at 503.618.2719. 

Gresham Police Department partners with Crimestoppers of Oregon. Information can be anonymously report through their website at http://www.crimestoppersoforegon.com or by using their mobile app.

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