Columbia Police say an assault took place, connected to an accident, on Jefferson Road at Hewitt on December 9th.  The following is from their report:

“While the officer was enroute further information was received that an assault was in progress connected to this accident. The officer arrived to investigate and determined the driver to be 21-year-old Courtland W. Karcher of Perrysburg Ohio.

“The investigation into the crash and the assault revealed that Karcher was traveling east on Jefferson Rd when he failed to maintain control of his vehicle.  The vehicle, a 2015 Hyundai Genesis, then slid through several yards and ultimately overturned coming to rest on its wheels.  A good Samaritan stopped to check the welfare of the driver following the crash. The good Samaritan then became a victim of an assault from Karcher.  Karcher then took possession of the vehicle, a Ford Fusion driven by the victim of the assault.  An additional good Samaritan intervened and was able to prevent the vehicle possessed by the suspect from leaving the area as well as capturing the keys to the Ford Fusion.

“The officer attempted to speak with Karcher regarding this incident. As the officer did so Karcher became combative and assaultive to the investigating officer.  Karcher was taken into custody and detained following the assaults.  Columbia Charter Township Fire Department responded along with Jackson Community Ambulance to evaluate the individuals involved in this incident. Karcher was transported to Henry Ford Hospital, Jackson by Jackson Community Ambulance for further treatment. Assisting the arresting officer at the scene was the Jackson County Office of the Sheriff.

“On December 10th, 2023 a police report was completed and forwarded to the Jackson County Prosecutors Office for review.  On December 11th, 2023, Karcher was charged with the following:

• Assault with intent to rob while unarmed,  Felony, punishable up to 15 years in prison.
• Police Officer – Assaulting/Resisting/Obstructing, Felony, punishable up to 2 years in prison.
• Operating – Impaired, Misdemeanor, punishable up to 93 days in jail.

“Karcher was arraigned before 12th District Court on December 12th, 2023.  He is currently out on bond while this matter is pending.