DAYTON, Ohio – A high-speed chase that resulted in the death of 35-year-old Colby Ross last year has led his family to file a lawsuit against several officers in the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, alleging negligence and violation of pursuit protocols. The announcement was made by the family and their legal representatives at a press conference Monday afternoon.
According to officials, on May 20, 2024, deputies engaged in a pursuit of Melissa Hutchins after she fled from a routine traffic stop near Miller Lane and Benchwood Road. Although Hutchins initially evaded capture, she was later sighted on SR-49. Authorities claim that during their second attempt to apprehend her, Hutchins again attempted to flee, resulting in a collision that killed Ross.
Dayton attorney Michael L. Wright, representing the Ross family, expressed confidence in the strength of the case, indicating that the evidence strongly supports the family’s position. He suggested that any jury presented with the facts would likely find in favor of the plaintiffs.
Renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump, also representing the Ross family, criticized the sheriff’s office for initiating the high-speed chase over a minor infraction. He emphasized that the sheriff’s department’s own guidelines restrict high-speed pursuits to situations involving serious crimes.
Crump further argued that blaming Hutchins entirely for Ross’s death was unjust, highlighting that the chaotic nature of police pursuits can exacerbate dangerous situations.
Supporting this perspective, Attorney Shean Williams of the Cochran Firm cited Ohio law, which mandates that law enforcement must conduct vehicle operations with due care, even in emergency situations.
The emotional weight of Ross’s untimely death was palpable during the announcement, with Colby’s wife, Shanae Ross, and his father, Skip Ross, sharing touching accounts of his character and contributions. Skip Ross lamented the impact of the loss on their family business, where Colby served as operations manager, stating that he now had to perform numerous roles just to keep the business viable.
Shanae Ross praised her late husband’s supportive nature, recalling his eagerness to help others achieve their dreams and visions.
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office declined to comment on the ongoing lawsuit. However, it is confirmed that Hutchins is facing charges, including involuntary manslaughter, as the legal proceedings continue.
As the case unfolds, further developments will be monitored closely.
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