Police Search for Hit-and-Run Driver

An drive was injured early Saturday morning after a hit-and-run crash at one of Sparta’s busiest intersections, and police are now asking for the public’s help identifying the driver involved.

According to the Sparta Police Department, officers responded at approximately 12:45 a.m. Saturday, May 16, to a reported collision at the intersection of West Bockman Way and North Spring Street.

Investigators believe a possible white Toyota RAV4 traveling westbound on West Bockman Way was involved in the crash. After the collision, the vehicle reportedly turned right onto Moore Street and fled the area before officers arrived.

The victim, identified only as an 84-year-old veteran, sustained injuries in the crash and was transported to the hospital for further medical evaluation.

Sparta Police officers, assisted by deputies with the White County Sheriff’s Office, searched the surrounding area but were unable to locate the suspect vehicle. Authorities believe the SUV likely sustained front-end damage in the collision.

Witnesses at the scene told officers they believed the RAV4 may have been racing another truck at the time of the crash.

The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone who witnessed the accident or may have information about the vehicle involved is encouraged to contact the Sparta Police Department.