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Davenport man arrested following tow truck vs. pedestrian crash

52-year-old Granvell K. Ramey of Davenport has been arrested after police say he was texting when he ran over a woman with his tow truck and fled the scene.

DAVENPORT, Iowa — Davenport police have arrested a man in connection to a vehicle vs. pedestrian crash that left a woman seriously injured.

52-year-old Granvell K. Ramey of Davenport has been arrested and charged with the following:

  • Serious Injury by Vehicle-Reckless by Use of Electronic Device
  • Serious Injury Hit and Run
  • Prevention Apprehension/Obstructing Prosecution 
  • Reckless Driving 
  • Fail to Obey Stop Sign (five counts)
  • Duty of Driver – Failure to Yield to a Pedestrian
  • Use of Electronic Communication Device While Driving

The arrest stems from a March 13 vehicle vs. pedestrian crash in which police say Ramey was driving a tow truck when he struck a woman who had the right of way at the intersection of Rockingham Road and South Concord Street, seriously injuring her. 

According to a criminal complaint, Ramey ran over the woman with the tow truck, causing injuries including a right femur fracture, pelvic fracture, left pneumothorax and multiple rib fractures.

Police say video footage from Ramey's tow truck and nearby businesses identified him as the driver of the tow truck. 

Police say the video shows Ramey knowingly running the victim over, and then leaving the scene. Ramey conducted an improper turn at the intersection of the crash, with his tow truck not completely to the right of the center line while turning, according to police. 

Video showed Ramey using his phone while driving just before the crash. Ramey deleted text messages and phone call records following the crash, according to police.

The incident occurred during a three-mile drive, in which police say Ramey drove at times with no hands on the steering wheel while using his phone and also committing several other traffic infractions.

Co-workers also identified Ramey as the driver. Police say Ramey admitted to driving the tow truck involved in the crash.

The pedestrian was identified as a 43-year-old woman. She was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. No update has been provided on her condition. 

No other injuries were reported. The incident remains under investigation.

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