David Ford Obituary, Death – A tragic hit-and-run crash in east Columbus on Monday night claimed the life of a 43-year-old man. The Columbus Division of Police provided details about the incident, which took place around 10:36 p.m. on Stelzer Road, south of East 5th Avenue. The accident occurred after a 2004 Chevrolet Impala broke down in the southbound lanes of Stelzer Road at approximately 10 p.m. David Ford, a passenger in the Impala, exited the vehicle and stood near the driver-side door. Meanwhile, the driver of the Impala positioned themselves on the concrete median, away from the car.
At around 10:36 p.m., a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado, traveling southbound on Stelzer Road, crashed into the back of the disabled Impala. The impact of the collision caused the Impala to lurch forward, striking Ford, who was standing nearby. Ford sustained severe injuries and was rushed to Grant Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.
Police identified the driver of the Chevrolet Silverado as Jamico Florida during their initial investigation. After the crash, Florida fled the scene on foot. Officers from the Columbus Division of Police later located him on Allegheny Avenue, not far from the crash site.
According to the preliminary investigation report, Florida was found to be impaired while driving the truck at the time of the crash. He has since been charged with aggravated vehicular homicide, a serious charge often applied in cases involving fatalities caused by impaired drivers.
The Columbus Division of Police’s Accident Investigation Unit is continuing to investigate the crash, gathering evidence and piecing together the events leading up to the fatal incident. Their efforts will focus on confirming the full sequence of events, analyzing the driver’s level of impairment, and considering other potential factors that contributed to the crash.
This hit-and-run has shocked the local community, as the circumstances surrounding the crash suggest it could have been preventable. Impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal accidents, and incidents like this underscore the serious consequences that result when individuals choose to drive while under the influence.
David Ford’s death has left his family and loved ones grieving a sudden and senseless loss. The tragic nature of the crash is compounded by the fact that Ford was simply standing near the broken-down vehicle when he was struck. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks posed by roadside accidents, especially in situations where drivers fail to notice or react in time to stationary or disabled vehicles.
Jamico Florida’s decision to flee the scene has only added to the gravity of the situation. Hit-and-run incidents are serious offenses that often lead to harsher legal consequences, as leaving the scene of an accident reflects a disregard for the well-being of those involved. In this case, Florida’s flight from the crash has likely compounded the charges against him, especially given that he was found to be impaired at the time.
As the investigation continues, authorities will likely seek to gather further information about Florida’s actions leading up to the crash, including where he had been before the incident and whether any prior factors contributed to his impaired state. The investigation will also include reconstructing the crash scene to better understand how the collision occurred and why Ford was unable to avoid being struck.
In the meantime, the local community and those close to Ford are left to mourn the loss of a 43-year-old man whose life was cut short by an avoidable accident. His death is a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the ripple effects it can have on families, friends, and communities.
The Columbus Division of Police continues to urge drivers to avoid impaired driving, reminding the public of the devastating consequences that can result from such reckless behavior. Incidents like this serve as a call to action for individuals to make responsible decisions when getting behind the wheel, particularly when alcohol or drugs are involved.
For Ford’s family, there may be little solace in knowing that charges have been filed against Florida, as no legal action can undo the damage caused by the crash. However, the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings will aim to bring justice to Ford and his loved ones, holding the responsible party accountable for his actions.
As the case unfolds, it will likely draw attention to the broader issue of impaired driving and its impact on public safety. Preventable tragedies like this one highlight the need for continued efforts to reduce instances of impaired driving and to promote awareness of the risks associated with driving under the influence.
In summary, David Ford, a 43-year-old man, was killed in a hit-and-run crash in east Columbus after a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Jamico Florida collided with his disabled vehicle. Florida, found to be impaired at the time, fled the scene but was later apprehended and charged with aggravated vehicular homicide. The accident is still under investigation, and authorities are continuing to gather information about the crash.