Urgent: Pickup Driver Hits Protesters, Claims No Intent to Harm

UPDATE: A 77-year-old man is under scrutiny after allegedly hitting a 53-year-old woman with his white 2023 Ford F-150 pickup truck during a protest in Jackson Township, Ohio, on July 15, 2023. The incident occurred at a large demonstration against former President Donald Trump, where thousands gathered near North Park as part of a nationwide protest.

Witnesses report that the driver veered off the road and struck the woman, who later required treatment for a leg injury. The incident has prompted local police to consult with the Massillon City Prosecutor’s Office regarding potential charges. However, the man insists he did not intend to hit anyone, telling the Canton Repository, “I don’t even remember it happening. It wasn’t anything like on purpose.”

As the investigation unfolds, demonstrators are expressing outrage. Lorraine Wilburn, a protester who captured a photo of the truck’s license plate, stated, “It was definitely on purpose. He went up on the curb. She took a direct hit.” The injured woman was seen raising her fist and affirming she was “all right,” but initial reports suggest she may have suffered a broken leg.

The driver claims that police have given him a “total thumbs-up,” asserting that they told him to “not even worry about it.” However, Jackson Township Police Chief Mark J. Brink has contradicted this, confirming that no such conversation occurred. This discrepancy raises questions about the investigation’s direction and the accountability of the driver.

Thousands of demonstrators participated in the protest, which was part of a larger movement that saw approximately 7 million people attending over 2,600 events nationwide. The protests were aimed at expressing dissent against Trump’s policies and included a diverse array of voices advocating for social change.

This developing story highlights the tensions surrounding political demonstrations and the potential for violence. As the police investigation continues, more updates are expected regarding the driver’s legal standing and the condition of the injured protester.

Stay tuned for real-time updates as authorities work to clarify the facts surrounding this alarming incident.