Pomeroy man involved in pursuit and crash

GALLIPOLIS, Ohio – A Pomeroy man has been injured in a vechicle crash that is currently being investigated by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

According to the Gallipolis Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol statement, they are “investigating a one vehicle crash involving one injury that occurred due to a pursuit on August 14, 2018 approximately 2:01 p.m. The crash occurred on US 35 near mileport 15 in Gallia County. The roadway was closed as a result of the crash.”

The roadway was closed about an hour.

According to the statement, Joesph Todd Billingsley, 38, of Pomeroy, Ohio was driving a 2002 Chevrolet Tracker traveling westbound on US 35 when an alleged loud exhaust violation was observed. He was also allegedly observed by law enforcement making several “marked lane violations” when a pursuit was initiated. According to OSHP, Billingsley “failed to stop for lights and siren when he lost control, slide into the median, overturned, and ejected the driver.”

Billingsley was air lifted to St. Mary’s with “non-incapacitating” injuries. According to the statement from law enforcement, he was not wearing a seat belt. Additionally, alcohol and drugs are possible factor.

The OSHP was assisted by the Gallia County Sheriff’s Office, Rio Grande Police Department, ODOT, Gallipolis Fire Department and Gallia County EMS.