Man Charged After Hit-and-Run Incident in Chubbuck

A 36-year-old man faced charges after allegedly striking a pedestrian with his vehicle and fleeing the scene in Chubbuck.

Axel Gustavo Ruiz-Villa was charged with felony leaving the scene of an injury accident following an incident on Feb. 2.

Details of the Incident

On the evening of Feb. 2, a report of a hit-and-run involving a pedestrian was received by the Chubbuck Police Department. An officer responded to the scene at 4100 Yellowstone Avenue where a woman was found lying on the road, surrounded by concerned onlookers.

The woman, located approximately 12 feet north of a crosswalk, was in need of immediate medical attention. Witnesses recounted seeing a white 2007 Dodge Nitro driving recklessly before colliding with the pedestrian and then fleeing the scene.

Police Investigation and Vehicle Identification

Despite being unable to interview the injured woman due to her sedated state, the officer was able to gather crucial evidence from traffic camera footage and car parts left at the scene. This led to the identification of the Dodge involved in the incident.

Further investigations by law enforcement authorities, including the recovery of the Dodge with blood stains and a broken windshield, led to the eventual apprehension of Ruiz-Villa in American Falls.

Account of the Suspect

Ruiz-Villa, upon questioning, provided his account of the incident, claiming he mistook an object falling from another vehicle for a large water jug hitting his car. He admitted to leaving the scene out of fear due to not having a valid license.

His explanation, including details of a black truck allegedly cutting him off before the incident, raised questions about the sequence of events leading to the hit-and-run.

Legal Proceedings and Potential Consequences

Ruiz-Villa was taken into custody and booked at Bannock County Jail on a bond of £50,000. He is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on March 6, where he could face up to five years in prison if convicted.

It is important to note that while Ruiz-Villa has been charged with the offences, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.