Police still searching for Zanesville suspect in fatal crash

Police+still+searching+for+Zanesville+suspect+in+fatal+crash

By Christine Holmes, News Director

Local police agencies are on the lookout for a Zanesville man suspected of fleeing the scene of a fatal crash in Licking County Tuesday afternoon.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol in Granville says Derek Zane Weaver, 29, went left of center while driving east on U.S. 40, striking a Honda Accord driven by 62 year-old Cathie Clippinger head-on with his Dodge Ram pickup truck.

Clippinger, of Mount Perry, was taken to the hospital where she was later pronounced dead.

OSP said Weaver took off on foot heading toward Zanesville.

Along the way, OSP said drivers offered Weaver rides but he eventually fled their vehicles.

Due to the condition of Weaver’s pickup truck and witness statements, authorities believe Weaver could be severely injured from the crash.

Police are investigating several suspected addresses where Weaver may have retreated.

According to OSP, Weaver has a lengthy criminal record, including a charge of resisting arrest, though most crimes are non-violent.

OSP is asking anyone with information on the whereabouts of Weaver to call them at (740) 654-1523.