CLEARFIELD – A fugitive, Donald Lee Gearhart, 30, of Martins Road, Houtzdale, has voluntarily surrendered, announced Clearfield County District Attorney William A. Shaw Jr. today.
On July 14, 2014, Trooper Brian Elensky of the Pennsylvania State Police, Clearfield Barracks, filed a criminal complaint against Gearhart. He charged Gearhart with accidents involving death or personal injury, M1; recklessly endangering another person, M2, six counts; accidents involving damage to attended vehicle or property, M3, two counts; operation following suspension of registration, S; required financial responsibility, S; driving on roadways laned for traffic, S; driving vehicle at safe speed, S; careless driving, S; reckless driving, S; duty to give information and render aid, S, two counts; and immediate notice of accident to police department, S.
According to the affidavit of probable cause, on July 11, 2014, state police were dispatched to the scene of a motor vehicle accident. Upon investigation it was allegedly found that a vehicle operated by Gearhart struck two others that were stopped at the intersection of state Route 53 and Summit Lane in Decatur Township.
Both of the vehicles, which were struck by Gearhart, sustained damage. Witnesses also attempted to prevent Gearhart from leaving the scene; however, he broke free and fled the scene in his vehicle, the affidavit states.
A preliminary hearing was scheduled for Aug. 20, 2014, at which time all charges were held for court. On Jan. 22, Gearhart failed to appear for Criminal Call and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
Shaw stated that on Monday, Gearhart voluntarily surrendered himself to deputies from the Clearfield County Sheriff’s Office. He thanked the Sheriff’s Office for its assistance with this case.
Anyone with knowledge of a fugitive’s location is asked to call Clearfield County Crime Stoppers at 800-376-4700. All calls to Crime Stoppers are confidential.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted by visiting the Clearfield County District Attorney Web site at “www.ClearfieldDA.org” and selecting “Report A Crime.”