By Mike Renzella
The Haldimand Press
Driver still unknown in hit-and-run
HAGERSVILLE—Haldimand OPP have arrested a third person in connection with the hit-and-run collision that resulted in the death of 23-year-old Hagersville resident Alex Dalton on April 23, 2021.
Thirty-year-old Felicia Kick of Waterford has been charged with Accessory after the Fact to Commit an Indictable Offence and Public Mischief. The arrest follows two previous arrests of individuals from Oshweken, but the key figure in the case, the driver, remains unidentified and at large.
Members of Alex’s family have appealed to members of the public in a video posted to the OPP’s social media accounts to come forward with any information that might assist with identifying the driver of the vehicle who fled the scene.
“Put yourself in our situation,” said Alex’s dad, Wayne, in the video. “You would want people to come forward. We’re asking that as well of you people that have information and know what’s going on to come forward and help us put things to rest.”
Mom Andrea King added, “I want them to know how devastated we are, but I also want them to know they can’t hide. They can evade police, but you’re not hiding from your spirit and you’re not hiding from yourself.”
Sherri Lafleur, family friend to the Daltons, was a central figure in the Purple Ribbon Campaign that blanketed the community in ribbons throughout 2021 to raise awareness of the case and the need for information.
She commented on the current state of the investigation: “Sadly, justice has not happened in full, although arrests have been made for the passenger and accomplice. The driver of the Chevy Tahoe has not been arrested. Alex’s birthday is coming up this month and he would have been 24. I am sure Alex’s family and friends will be celebrating with a heavy heart.”
Lafleur has said that although the Purple Ribbon Campaign has wound down, and many of the ribbons have been or will be removed due to degradation from the elements, those that are still in good condition will be left in place.
“I would like to thank the individual(s) who have found creative ways to keep Alex’s ribbons posted. We know there has been members of our communities who have fixed and repositioned ribbons to keep them posted,” said Lafleur. “Ribbons that are on private properties, businesses, and residential homes will not be taken down by committee members. Where possible, please keep ribbons and messages up as long as you can. This is truly appreciated, and we cannot thank you enough.”
Police are seeking anyone who may have witnessed the collision or may have obtained video or dash camera footage of the incident. If you or someone you know has relevant information, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 to remain anonymous, with the possibility of a $2,000 reward.
In addition, a GoFundMe reward organized by Hagersville resident Steve Slack has collected a massive $64,057 that will go to anyone who provides information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
“He left a gaping hole and that is never going to be filled,” said Andrea of trying to move forward without her son.
