SILVERTON, Ohio -- A man is dead after a woman struck him with her car as he was crossing the intersection of Section Road and Ohio Avenue in his motorized wheelchair, police said.
Robert D. Tirey, 44, of Cincinnati, was operating the wheelchair in a marked crosswalk around 9:35 p.m. Thursday when police say Jasmain L. Grier, 26, of Cincinnati, failed to yield and struck Tirey on the right side with her 2004 Kia Spectra. Grier was driving eastbound on Section Road.
Deerpark/Silverton Fire Department crews took Tirey to Jewish Hospital where doctors pronounced him dead.
Grier was not injured, police said. It is unknown whether she was wearing her seat belt at the time of the crash.
Police said they believe alcohol contributed to the crash, but speed and drugs were not a factor.
Tirey was a resident of Silverton Pointe Nursing and Rehabilitation in Cincinnati. The facility released a statement saying they are saddened by Tirey's death.
"We are, on all levels, assisting in the investigation of this tragic accident," the statement said. "We strive to ensure the safety of our residents while protecting their autonomy and right to be active citizens in their community. Counselors are on hand at the facility to assist our residents and staff through this difficult time. Our deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of Robert Tirey."
Tirey's death remains under investigation. Hamilton County Sheriff's Traffic Safety Unit officials asks anyone who may have witnessed the incident call them at 513-825-1500.
