OGDEN, Utah -- A man who was critically injured in a hit-and-run crash in Ogden last week has been identified, and police said tips have helped them locate the man believed to have fled the scene after the crash.
According to the Davis County Sheriff’s Office, the victim in the crash is 27-year-old Preston Fielding, who is the son of Davis County Chief Deputy Kevin Fielding.
Fielding was taken to a hospital in critical condition after he was hit while crossing a street on March 4, and according to Thursday’s post the man remains in an Ogden-area hospital in serious condition.
"The victim is unconscious, has not regained consciousness," said Robert Evans, a Master Officer with the Ogden City Police Traffic Division. "He has family and friends with him, doctors are doing all they can."
He said investigators have been tirelessly working to track down the car, and driver responsible for hitting Fielding.
"The investigation's been intense," Evans said. "We've been making contact with businesses that might be involved in repairing vehicles."
They also worked to track down surveillance video. He said a break came in the case when one repair shop called police to report suspicions they had with a car they were working on.
"The car had damage to the front end," Evans said. "There were dents on the hood. There was physical evidence of the pedestrian still on the car, and the windshield."
Now, Evans said they've completed the investigation. Next, they'll present their findings to the Weber County Attorney's Office.
The office would then file charges, and issue an arrest warrant for the suspect.
While Evans couldn't identify the suspect they think hit Fielding, police had stated previously that 23-year-old Samuel Enrique Hernandez of Ogden could face charges for fleeing the scene of an accident involving serious bodily injury.
Evans said they expect Weber County to complete the case by Monday.
"The family is relieved to know that there is some closure," he said. "They are focusing now on the healing process, and the care of their family member."
According to Davis County Sheriff’s Office, an account has been set up at America First Credit Union to help Fielding’s family with medical expenses. Donations can be made at any AFCU branch to the Preston Chase Fielding Charitable Account, 9081225.
The post notes, “All donations go towards his mounting expenses as he is the sole provider for his family. Thank you for supporting our #BlueLineFamily during this difficult time.” Fielding has a wife and two children.
