Clayton Police Make Arrest in Hit & Run

Clayton police have charged a Knightdale man with felony hit & run after an incident that left a Clayton man in critical condition.

44-year-old Douglas John Fishman was arrested on Tuesday, Oct. 9th after voluntarily contacting Clayton Police. On Monday, Fishman told police that he had learned of the hit and run investigation from media reports and came in to talk with officers. After further investigation, a warrant was obtained, charging Fishman with leaving the scene of the collision. The official felony is “Hit & Run causing Personal Injury.”

According to witnesses, 51-year-old Kenneth Clark of Clayton was in the roadway on West Main Street when he was struck by a pick-up truck pulling a utility trailer about 9:00 PM on Thursday, October 4, 2012. Witnesses say the pick-up truck continued driving. Mr. Clark remains hospitalized.

Fishman was released from the Johnston County Detention Center after posting a $10,000 secured bond. His first appearance is tomorrow (Wednesday) at 9 am at the Johnston County Courthouse in Smithfield. His mug shot from this afternoon is attached.

Clark was rushed to WakeMed on Thrusday night and has since undergone several surgeries.

Shortly after 9 p.m., investigators say Clark was sitting along the shoulder of West Main Street near Mulberry Street. Passing drivers noticed Clark in the roadway and decided to turn around to see if he needed help. As they were stopped, they tell police they witnessed a white Ford F-150 pick-up truck pulling an enclosed utility trailer driving west-bound on Main. They say the utility trailer struck Clark as it passed. The F-150 stopped momentarily at Moore Street, but then continued on, according to witnesses. The witnesses were unable to read the license plate.

Clayton police didn't know whether the driver of the F-150 even realized they had struck someone, and were seeking the public's help in locating the driver for questioning.

Anyone with information, can always call Clayton Crime Stoppers at 919-359-TIPZ (8479). You can remain anonymous and any callers with information that leads to an arrest could be eligible for a reward.