Truck driver gets only traffic citations for Route 22 crash that killed 2, records show

EBENSBURG, Pa. (WJAC) – The driver of a coal truck that ran a red light on Route 22 near Ebensburg and killed two people is only facing traffic citations, court records show.

Leonard Hite, 70, was cited for careless driving resulting in death and running a red light.

The crash happened in May last year. Police said Hite ran the red light at the Unimart intersection hitting a car with Richard, 77, and Therese, 71, Dow and their dog inside.

Richard died instantly, while Therese died weeks later at the hospital. Their dog was euthanized because of its injuries.

Police reports said Hite’s truck also hit a Cambria County’s Sheriff’s car, injuring two deputies inside.

Court documents show Hite pleaded not guilty to the citations and will have a summary trial at the end of March.

6 News asked District Attorney Greg Neugebauer about the lack of criminal charges and the decision to only cite Hite with what amounts to traffic tickets.

He said in a statement, “Based on the investigation which included an accident reconstruction completed by PSP, witness statements, and applicable law, the citations issued, which include careless driving resulting in death, are the appropriate filings in this matter.”

He added, “Our thoughts and prayers remain with all affected by the incident.”

Online court records show Hite had four other traffic citations since 2015. Most appear to be minor infractions. One in September 2018 was listed as “Obedience to Traffic Control Devices.”

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