Akron man indicted in fatal hit-and-run that killed 38-year-old pedestrian
Police say a Flock camera image helped identify the driver who struck Jesse McCool in September and fled the scene.
By Fernando Rojas ·
A 38-year-old Akron man killed in a September hit-and-run is now the subject of a felony indictment against the driver accused of leaving the scene. Freddie Lee Walker faces a charge of failure to stop after an accident in connection with the death of Jesse McCool.
According to Akron police, Walker admitted to driving a tan Cadillac SRX that struck McCool as he crossed South Main Street near East Miller Avenue. The crash occurred just before 10:30 p.m. on Sept. 26. McCool was transported to an Akron hospital and died the following day.
Investigators initially sought a black SUV based on witness reports. They later identified the vehicle as a tan Cadillac SRX with tinted windows and an Ohio license plate starting with the letters KYL. Police stated that a Flock license plate reader at the intersection of Main and Miller streets captured an image of the vehicle, which was pivotal in building the case.
On Oct. 3, an anonymous tip led investigators to Walker, who was attempting to repair the Cadillac. Police examined electronically stored data from the vehicle to confirm its presence at the scene during the crash. Akron Police Lt. Michael Murphy said the data allowed investigators to place the car at the location at the specific time of the incident.
Murphy acknowledged the ongoing debate regarding law enforcement access to Flock camera data. He said the McCool family requested that police use every available tool to find the responsible party. Murphy stated that without the availability of Flock cameras, it is unlikely the investigation would have reached its current stage.
Walker has been served with a summons to appear in Summit County Common Pleas Court on Nov. 20. He is not currently in custody. Celestine Saunders, McCool's sister, expressed frustration that Walker is out on a summons rather than behind bars while awaiting his court date.
Saunders said her anger stems from the allegation that Walker left without stopping to help her brother. She noted that McCool lived with mild developmental delays, did not drive, and loved to walk. The family described him as a loving and outgoing man who brought joy to those around him.
State records indicate Walker has a prior history of incarceration for sex crimes and domestic violence. Police said Walker had a green light at the time of the collision. Investigators have not determined why he allegedly left the scene. The family said they are now closer to the accountability they have sought since the death.
