Victim of hit-skip in west Columbus on Christmas Eve dies five days later

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – A pedestrian who was run over in west Columbus on Christmas Eve is now dead and police are searching for the driver.

According to Columbus police, 41-year-old Ronnie Carperton died five days after being struck by a vehicle traveling eastbound on Sullivant Avenue in the Hilltop. The collision occurred at around 10:30 p.m. on Dec. 24 when Carperton was reportedly walking along the south side of the street.

Police said Carperton then attempted to cross northbound on Sullivant Ave. near the South Sylvan Avenue intersection when an unidentified vehicle struck him.

Carperton was taken to an area hospital where he remained after suffering life-threatening injuries. He was pronounced dead at 5:03 p.m. Sunday evening.

The operator of the vehicle made no efforts to stop and fled the scene, continuing eastbound on Sullivant Ave. Police believe the car is maroon in color.

Any person with knowledge of the involved vehicle or driver is asked to contact the Accident Investigation Unit at (614) 645-4767. Persons wishing to remain anonymous may also contact Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-8477.