Sheriff: Drunken driver causes fatal Plain Township crash

PLAIN TOWNSHIP, Ohio - The Stark County Sheriff said a grandmother is dead after being struck by a drunken driver in Plain Township with her grandson in the car.

The wreck happened Monday on Easton Street NE and Pinetree Avenue NE at 9:32 p.m.

The Stark County Sheriff's Office said when they arrived to the scene, the drunk driver, Paul Newton, 48, tried to flee. Following a short foot pursuit, authorities caught up to him. Before Newton was charged with OVI, reckless operation and others, he was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Investigators said Sondra Oldfield, 71, was driving her Pontiac Grand Prix south on Pinetree Avenue NE when she was hit by Newton's truck while turning down Easton Street NE. Authorities said Newton was intoxicated and speeding down the street without his headlights on when he slammed into the left side of Oldfield's car.

Oldfield had to be rescued from the car and then taken to a local hospital where she later died. Her 6-year-old grandson, Elyjah Gourick, was also taken to a local hospital for treatment. The condition of the 6-year-old isn't known, but authorities said both were wearing seatbelts.

The investigation continues.