[IndianaTrails] Goshen driver surrenders

[Robert J. Matter]

http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070523/News01/705230390

May 23. 2007 6:59AM
Goshen driver surrenders
Elkhart County prosecutor weighs charges in hit-run.


Tribune Staff Report

ELKHART -- The driver allegedly involved in Monday's fatal hit-and-run 
crash voluntarily identified himself later that night, police announced 
Tuesday.

John Raymond Stafford, 36, of Goshen told the Elkhart County Sheriff's 
Department late Monday the crash was when he was driving to work about 
5:15 a.m. that day.

As he headed west on County Road 14, he told police, he hit something 
and continued on, not thinking the incident was serious. He also said he 
regretted not stopping to contact officers, police said.

When Stafford arrived late Monday to speak with officers, crash 
investigators impounded his red 1999 Ford F-150 pickup truck, which had 
damage to its front corner on the passenger side, police said.

The Elkhart County prosecutor's office will determine what charges will 
be brought against Stafford, who had not been arrested Tuesday 
afternoon, police said. Bill Wargo, chief investigator with the 
prosecutor's office, said he was waiting for the necessary paperwork 
late Tuesday or early today before he could release more information.

Monday's hit-and-run killed bicyclist Phillip Flamion, 46. Flamion was 
found about 6:10 a.m. Monday and was pronounced dead at the scene, near 
County Road 14 east of County Road 17.

Police spent Monday searching factories, businesses and auto body shops 
for the truck in the crash.

"If you hit anything, you should stop and check your vehicle," said 
Trevor Wendzonka, a spokesman for the Elkhart County Sheriff's 
Department. "Also look around to see if anyone else was involved, and 
call police if necessary."

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