Columbus, OH (August 5, 2025) – A late-night incident on the city’s east side left one person hospitalized with serious injuries after being discovered in a roadside ditch in what authorities believe was a hit-and-run collision.
At approximately 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, officers with the Columbus Division of Police responded to a report of an injured individual near Stelzer Rd, just north of E 7th Ave. Upon arrival, they found a severely injured person lying in a ditch along the side of the roadway.
Emergency medical services arrived promptly and transported the individual to a nearby hospital for treatment. Police have confirmed that the injuries are considered serious, though no additional information about the victim’s identity has been released at this time.
The Columbus Police Accident Investigation Unit is actively working the case. Preliminary details suggest the injuries may have resulted from a vehicle striking the individual before fleeing the scene. At present, no witnesses have come forward, and authorities are urging the public to assist in the investigation.
Anyone who may have seen or heard anything in the area around the time of the incident is asked to contact the Columbus Division of Police or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
Our thoughts are with the victim, and we hope for a full recovery as investigators work to uncover the circumstances surrounding this serious incident.
Pedestrian Collisions in Ohio
Hit-and-run incidents involving pedestrians remain a critical public safety concern across Ohio, especially in densely populated urban areas like Columbus. Sunday night’s event on Stelzer Rd—where an individual was found with life-threatening injuries in a ditch—demonstrates how these types of collisions often leave victims vulnerable and without immediate help.
East Columbus, particularly along stretches like Stelzer Rd and E 7th Ave, experiences frequent traffic activity. Limited lighting, high speeds, and reduced visibility during evening hours can all contribute to increased risk for pedestrians. While investigators have not released specific details about the vehicle involved in this case, hit-and-runs often involve drivers who fail to yield or operate vehicles without headlights or under impairment.
This case is especially troubling because the injured individual was not discovered until after the incident had occurred, potentially delaying emergency care. Such scenarios highlight the importance of both driver awareness and community vigilance—especially during night hours in residential and mixed-use areas.
For those who live or commute in the Columbus area, the city offers a number of pedestrian safety initiatives and programs designed to improve infrastructure, educate the public, and reduce the frequency of serious collisions. Additionally, law enforcement agencies actively encourage residents to report reckless driving or suspicious activity to help prevent further tragedies.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian crash, know that you are not alone. Local Accident Reports is committed to helping victims connect with support resources, legal options, and safety information during recovery. Reach out today to learn how we can help guide you forward.
