Wawarsing, NY (April 7, 2025) – A Sullivan County man is facing felony charges after allegedly hitting a 20-year-old pedestrian with a semi-truck and leaving the scene of the crash last month, according to the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office.
Incident Details: Deputies responded to a report of a pedestrian hit by a vehicle near 7500 Route 209 in the Town of Wawarsing at approximately 9:50 p.m. on March 12. A preliminary investigation revealed that a southbound Freightliner tractor-trailer struck a 20-year-old man from Ellenville, causing serious injuries.
The victim was transported to Garnet Health Medical Center in Middletown by the Ellenville First Aid & Rescue Squad. He is expected to recover from his injuries.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: Following an investigation, authorities identified the semi-truck driver as 72-year-old John A. Mansfield of Ferndale. Deputies located the vehicle and arrested Mansfield on March 26. He was charged with leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, resulting in serious physical injury and tampering with physical evidence.
As the case proceeds through the justice system, a full investigation will help determine how the crash occurred and whether further legal consequences are warranted.
Although the victim is expected to recover, he may have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim against Mansfield, seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Source: Times Herald-Record