By Jeremy D. Wells
Carter County Times
Grayson police have made an arrest in a pedestrian hit and run incident captured on surveillance video Wednesday morning. Stephen Ray Ludwig, 33, of Grayson, was arrested by Grayson PD on Thursday evening, on charges of first degree wanton endangerment, leaving the scene of an accident – failure to render aid or assistance, and operating a motor vehicle on a suspended or revoked operator’s license.
In the footage, which racked up more than 360,000 views on the City of Grayson Facebook page, an automobile operated by Ludwig can be seen striking a blind pedestrian crossing South Hord Street at the Main Street intersection. After striking the pedestrian, and knocking him over, the car can be seen reversing, and changing lanes, before speeding away. As the car backs up and flees the scene, the victim can be heard on camera yelling at the driver, “Are you serious?!?”
According to a release from the Grayson police department and Mayor Troy Comb’s office, the visually impaired pedestrian was struck by Ludwig’s 2003 Hyundai Accent at around 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday morning (August 21). The vehicle immediately fled the scene.
Officer Zach Keesee with the Grayson police department responded at the scene, along with crews from Carter County Emergency Services. The victim received minor injuries from the accident, and refused medical transport to the hospital, but was seen by a doctor later in the day.
After opening an investigation, officer Keesee received several tips from the public, as well as assistance from the Carter County Sheriff’s office. As part of his investigation Keesee canvassed the area for video surveillance, including the footage shared on the city’s social media accounts.
On Thursday (August 22) Keesee interviewed two suspects and arrested Ludwig after receiving a full confession.
Ludwig is currently housed in the Carter County Detention Center on the charges in question, and his 2003 Hyundai Accent has been impounded as evidence.
Contact the writer at editor@cartercountytimes.com
