Pickup Truck Driver Charged After Allegedly Shattering Pedestrian’s Skull

(KNSI) – A St. Cloud man has been charged after allegedly hitting a pedestrian and leaving the scene.

First responders were called to the 800 block of 9th Avenue South around 3:00 on Thursday morning. Police found a 66-year-old man with a cut on his forehead lying in a pool of blood. A passenger mirror was found next to the victim. According to the criminal complaint, the man was rushed to CentraCare-St. Cloud Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Doctors say his skull was “shattered,” and he suffered cuts to his face and shoulder. The man’s current condition wasn’t released.

Investigators found security video from the area that showed a black pickup truck driving around the time of the hit-and-run. Police say the truck’s side mirror matched the one recovered near the victim. A 2015 Ram truck with a missing mirror was found around 3:30 on Thursday afternoon next to Promise Park near 10th Avenue Southeast and 10th Street Southeast.

The truck was registered to John Delante Smith. The 63-year-old spoke with police, and he admitted he had been driving the truck and thought he hit something with his mirror but didn’t stop to check. Smith was arrested.

According to the complaint, after being placed in handcuffs, Smith attempted to flee from police but only made it a few steps. He was searched, and police say they found .72 grams of cocaine in his pocket.

Smith was charged on Friday with one felony count of criminal vehicular operation and fleeing the scene of an injury accident.

He posted bail. Smith’s next court hearing is set for August 2nd.

___