SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Jan. 8, 2025 (Gephardt Daily) — Police have arrested a 49-year-old man after a hit-and-run crash Tuesday that left an 84-year-old pedestrian with critical injuries.
Salt Lake City police arrived at the scene, at 1719 S. Main St., after being alerted by dispatch.
Officers found the victim on the side of the road, with a cut to his head. He was transported to the hospital.
“Officers were later updated that the victim had a collapsed lung and brain bleed,” say arrest documents filed for Erik Benjamin Connor, 49.
“The involved vehicle (a Ford F-350) was located around the corner of the traffic accident, unoccupied. Officers left their patrol vehicles around the vehicle with their patrol lights activated and searched for the driver.
“While officers were searching, Erik returned to his vehicle and left the scene. At no time did Erik talk to officers on scene to let them know he was the driver.”
The probable cause statement, filed by an SLCPD officer, says that “Hours later, Erik called in with his attorney and agreed to talk with officers. Post Miranda, Erik admitted to being the driver that hit the pedestrian and admitted to leaving the scene without contacting officers.”
Connor was booked into the Salt Lake County jail for investigation of failure to remain at an accident involving a serious injury, listed as a third-degree felony. His bail was set at $2,500, which was paid, according to jail records.
Officers later found the suspect’s pickup at a hotel near the University of Utah.
