The Moraine community is mourning the tragic loss of 60-year-old Richard Craft, who was killed in a crash involving a driver allegedly fleeing a traffic stop. Craft was identified on Friday by the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office.
According to authorities, the incident began shortly before noon when a Moraine officer attempted a traffic stop on a Jeep near State Route 741 and Kettering Boulevard. The driver fled the scene, traveling the wrong way down Kettering Boulevard. The officer did not pursue. About 1.5 miles from the initial stop, the Jeep collided with Craft’s vehicle.
Emergency responders found two injured victims at the scene: Craft, who suffered life-threatening injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, and a passenger in the Jeep, who was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect was located shortly after and taken into custody, also receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. Charges against the driver are pending.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Richard Craft’s sudden and tragic passing leaves family, friends, and the community grieving. His life, loved by many, was taken far too soon, and the loss is felt deeply by all who knew him. The Moraine community extends heartfelt condolences to Craft’s family during this profoundly difficult time.
