Johnstown Man Hits Multiple Cars, Flees Scene

Man Arrested After Fleeing Accident Scene, Found Hiding in Basement

A Johnstown man was arrested after allegedly fleeing the scene of a car accident and later being found hiding in a basement. Dominick Washington, 33, is now facing multiple charges following an incident that occurred on July 26. According to a criminal complaint, police were called to Chandler Avenue after reports of a vehicle hitting multiple parked cars and a church.

The incident involved a white 1999 Cadillac STS that crashed into the steps of Calvary Methodist Church. A witness reported seeing two people in the vehicle, both of whom fled the scene after the accident. Police later found the damaged Cadillac and contacted the registered owner of the car. The owner allegedly told police that Washington and another individual had permission to use the vehicle and were supposed to return it.

The Cadillac had struck two other vehicles before crashing into the church. One of the cars hit had significant damage to the front driver’s side, including the bumper, fender panel, and a broken headlight. The tire was also flat. The Cadillac itself suffered major front-end damage, with a broken bumper, a dented hood, and a broken front fender. The windshield was significantly cracked, and both the driver’s and passenger’s airbags had deployed. Blood spots were found on the airbags, and an empty Four Loko can was discovered outside the vehicle.

The church’s stair railing was broken off, and the stairs themselves were cracked from the impact. Police learned that Washington was supposed to be living at a residence on Chandler Avenue and went there to make contact with him. At the home, a resident reportedly told officers, “He is in here, get him out of here.” Officers found Washington in the basement with visible injuries to his head and knee. They noticed a bulge in one of his socks and attempted to pat him down, which led to resistance.

Washington was eventually taken into custody, and police discovered a clear plastic baggie containing what they believed to be crack cocaine in his sock. Due to his injuries, he was taken to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center for evaluation.

Washington is currently held at Cambria County Prison with bail set at 10% of $20,000. He faces several charges, including assault of a law enforcement officer, possession with intent to deliver, DUI, resisting arrest, and other charges related to the crashes. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 13.

This case highlights the consequences of leaving the scene of an accident and the legal repercussions that follow. Authorities continue to investigate the full extent of the incident and the involvement of any other individuals. Residents in the area are reminded of the importance of following traffic laws and taking responsibility for their actions on the road.