Cleveland authorities are urging the community to come forward with any information that could help solve a hit-and-run case that has now turned fatal. The victim, 65-year-old William Hogue, recently died from the injuries he sustained in a September collision, prompting investigators to renew their search for the driver responsible. His passing has added urgency to a case that has troubled detectives for weeks and left his family searching for answers.
The crash occurred on the night of September 19 around 9 p.m. at the intersection of East 78th Street and St. Clair Avenue. Officers with the Cleveland Division of Police responded to reports of a multi-vehicle accident, but when they arrived, only one vehicle remained at the scene—a blue Suzuki motorcycle. That motorcycle had been operated by Hogue, who was found unresponsive and critically injured. The driver of the other vehicle had already fled, leaving no information and offering no assistance.
Emergency responders transported Hogue to the hospital, where he was placed under intensive medical care. Despite doctors’ best efforts, his injuries proved severe. For weeks, he fought for his life, but on November 8, detectives received confirmation that he had passed away due to complications from the crash. His death shifted the investigation from a serious injury case to a fatal hit-and-run, further intensifying pressure on investigators to find the driver who left the scene.
Police say progress in the case has been limited. Investigators have been unable to identify witnesses or obtain surveillance footage that might reveal what happened. Several early leads were pursued but ultimately went nowhere. Authorities released a photo of Hogue’s damaged motorcycle, hoping it might jog someone’s memory or prompt new tips. Detectives emphasized that even minor details—something seen on the road, a suspicious vehicle, or information shared by someone who knows the driver—could make a meaningful difference.
The crash is now being investigated as a felony “failure to stop after an accident,” a charge applied when a driver involved in a collision leaves without calling police, providing identification, or helping an injured person. Police reminded the public that remaining at the scene is not only a legal obligation but also a critical step in ensuring injured individuals receive timely aid.
Cleveland Police are asking anyone who was near East 78th Street and St. Clair Avenue on the night of September 19—or anyone who has heard information related to the crash—to contact the Accident Investigation Unit at 216-623-3310. Officials say community cooperation may be the key to finally identifying the suspect and giving Hogue’s family the justice they deserve.
