COLUMBUS, Ohio — Robert Bay is asking the driver who hit and killed his father while he was biking in Newark last week to take responsibility for their actions.
His father, also named Robert Bay, was riding a bike on North 21st and West Main streets on June 10 around 11 p.m. when he was hit from the back by a vehicle. The driver took off after the crash and his father died from his injuries.
“He was somebody who lived larger than life,” said Bay said of his father. “He said that was the way to stay in shape. He was 60 but going on 32.”
Bay said his dad was a hard worker, could fix just about anything and would help anyone no matter the time of day.
“Shock, I think anybody would be in shock. It's kind of hard to wrap your mind around it. I think I still am,” Bay said.
He says he was light-hearted and would light up a room.
Bay recently learned that his father was reconnecting with a daughter who was given up for adoption at birth and whom he never met.
“I have a half-sister out there. I have never met her, but he was talking to her, and they were supposed to meet this summer,” Bay said.
He wished the two could have reconnected and is now focused on getting justice for his dad with the arrest of the driver.
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Newark police say two witnesses were able to help give officers some information on the scene, but they are still looking for your help.
“There is a second vehicle of interest. I would urge them or anyone who has any information to please come forward,” said Newark Police Det. Derrick Beach.
Police said they have some surveillance video of the incident and are working with the Licking County Prosecutor's Office on the case.
“Stop, stop and make sure at least be a humanitarian. Show some compassion. Take responsibility for your own actions,” Bay said. “…They would be setting the example for a lot of people in the world to take responsibility for your own actions. We live in a fast-paced world. I think a lot of people try to take the easy way out. I think there's a lot to be said for someone who does take responsibility for their actions,” Bay said.
Newark police are still investigating the hit-and-run. Anyone with information is asked to call them.