MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—A high-speed pursuit on January 20, 2024, resulted in multiple injuries and the loss of a local man’s life. The incident began around 10:15 p.m. when Marion police officers responded to a violent altercation in the 100 block of E. Mark St.
Upon arrival, an officer spotted the suspect, 22-year-old Zachary Harter of Marion, fleeing the scene in a 2014 Dodge at high speed. The officer pursued Harter, who initially fled northbound on Park St. before turning eastbound on E. Fairground St.
The officer terminated the pursuit approximately 36 seconds later when Harter crossed into the opposite lane on E. Fairground St. Shortly after the pursuit ended, Harter was involved in a crash in the 600 block of E. Fairground St.
Harter’s vehicle collided with a 2013 Ford, veered off the road on the north side, and struck a utility box, a pole, and a tree at high speed. Harter sustained fatal injuries in the crash.
A juvenile passenger in Harter’s vehicle was also injured and was initially taken to Marion General Hospital before being transferred to Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Additionally, three occupants of the Ford were transported to Marion General Hospital due to injuries sustained in the collision.
An adult female victim, who was involved in the initial altercation that prompted the police response, was transported from E. Mark St. to Marion General Hospital and admitted for her injuries.
The Marion Police Department has requested the Ohio State Highway Patrol to investigate the crash. The investigation is currently ongoing, and further details will be provided once the investigation is concluded.