WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah, June 21, 2017 (Gephardt Daily) — Formal charges have been filed against a driver accused of hitting and killing a stranger in West Valley City after the victim confronted the suspect about repeatedly punching a Chihuahua.
Aaron Daniel Hosman, 40, was charged Wednesday with one count of murder with a dangerous weapon, a first-degree felony; one count of obstructing justice, a second-degree felony; and one count of cruelty to an animal, a class B misdemeanor.
The murder charge stems from a June 7 incident in which police say Hosman ran over and killed Jeremy Hardman, 47, who was in a crosswalk at 4100 South and 3600 West, in West Valley City.
According to court documents, Hardman and friend, Jason Estes, had previously pulled up next to Hosman’s vehicle and witnessed him delivering multiple punches to a Chihuahua, which was yelping in pain.
Hardman confronted the suspect about the abuse, and the suspect told the men to follow his car. Driver Estes did not, and Hardman exited his friend’s vehicle.
Witnesses say that is when Hosman made a U-turn, accelerated, and struck Hardman in the intersection, throwing him 54 feet and causing fatal injuries.
A tipster later noticed a vehicle that matched police descriptions and had windshield damage. The tipster followed it, then told police where it was parked, hidden under a tarp.
The obstruction of justice charge arises from allegations that Hosman tried to disguise his car with paint, different wheels, sticker removal and a change of license plates. Police ran the VIN and confirmed the car was registered to Hosman.
Hosman also provided false information to police, the charging documents say.
The animal cruelty charge was added for Hosman’s alleged abuse of the Chihuahua, Buddi, who reportedly belongs to a friend. Buddi was later located and found to be in good condition.
Hosman was arrested June 11. His bail is set at more than $1 million.
