LEBANON, Ohio — A Lebanon man and prominent Warren County business owner died in a hit-and-run crash on northbound I-71 in Washington Township, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Police said a 2010 Ford Ranger, operated by James Clark, 76, was traveling north on I-71 in the right lane around 7 a.m. on Monday. An unknown, light-colored SUV was also traveling north on I-71 in the left lane, and the vehicles made contact causing Clark to lose control of his vehicle.
The Ford Ranger traveled off the right side of the road and struck a concrete barrier, the release said. The vehicle crossed to the left side of the roadway, where it struck another concrete barrier. The SUV continued to travel north and did not stop.
Police said Clark was pronounced dead on the scene.
Clark's family company, Jim Clark and Sons Excavating in Lebanon, confirmed his death to WCPO. Clark had three children and nine grandchildren, and he is "missed immensely already."
"We are hopeful the other car is found so we can get answers," a family member told WCPO.
The crash remains under investigation by the OSHP. Anyone with information about this crash is asked to contact the Lebanon post of OSHP at (513) 932-4444.
