Chillicothe, OH – A months-long investigation into a fatal hit-and-run crash in Ross County has led to an arrest, authorities confirmed Saturday morning.
According to the Ross County Sheriff’s Office, 34-year-old Martin A. Howard was arrested around 11:30 a.m. Friday at his residence in Pike County. The arrest stems from a January 10 hit-and-run crash on Denver Road that claimed the life of 49-year-old Joshua Hopkins.
Investigators say Hopkins was struck and killed in the incident, and the driver allegedly fled the scene. Following the crash, detectives worked with members of the community to gather information that ultimately led to Howard’s arrest.
Howard has been charged with two counts of leaving the scene of an accident and one count of aggravated vehicular homicide. All charges are felonies. Authorities said he is currently being held in the Ross County Jail while awaiting arraignment.
The sheriff’s office credited tips from community members as a key factor in identifying and locating the suspect. Officials did not release additional details about the crash or what led investigators to Howard, citing the ongoing legal process.
Sheriff George W. Lavender Jr. expressed condolences to the victim’s family in a public statement, acknowledging the loss felt by those who knew Hopkins and thanking the public for assisting in the investigation.
Court records are expected to provide additional information once Howard appears before a judge. No bond information was immediately available.
Anyone with additional information related to the crash is encouraged to contact the Ross County Sheriff’s Office.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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