Toledo police are hunting for a hit-and-run driver who fled the scene of a two-vehicle collision Sunday that sent longtime Democratic Rep. Marcy Kaptur and her campaign manager to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
As of Monday morning, the suspect remains at large.
The crash occurred at approximately 10:48 a.m. local time at the intersection of North Detroit Avenue and Central Avenue in Toledo.
According to Toledo Police Department officials, Kaptur, 80, was a passenger in a black Ford Bronco driven northbound by her 26-year-old campaign manager, Kegan Zimmermann.
A silver sedan traveling southbound on Detroit Avenue “came into the path” of their vehicle, causing the collision.
Both occupants were transported to St. Vincent’s Medical Center for treatment of undisclosed but non-serious injuries.
Kaptur’s office confirmed she remained “active, alert, and being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.” Zimmermann was also listed in stable condition.
“This morning Congresswoman Kaptur was a passenger in a vehicle on her way to a church service when the car she was traveling in was struck. She is active, alert, and being treated for non-life threatening injuries. We look forward to additional information from Toledo Police as they investigate the accident,” her office said in a statement.
“Congresswoman Kaptur is thankful for the quick actions of first responders from Toledo Police and Fire Departments who arrived promptly on scene, and the medical professionals helping to take care of those involved in the crash. She expressed her deep gratitude to the hundreds of constituents who have reached out and looks forward to returning to a full schedule soon,” Kaptur’s office added.
Police classified the incident as a “hit-skip” crash after the at-fault driver fled.
A witness told local media that the other driver was quickly picked up by a second vehicle and left the scene.
Both vehicles involved were impounded as evidence while investigators collected and processed information.
Toledo Police Chief Michael Troendle said Sunday evening that the suspect remains at large but that detectives have made “significant progress” and are following several strong leads.
“I had a chance to speak with Representative Marcy Kaptur today, and we’re glad to hear she’s doing well. Our thoughts remain with her and Mr. Zimmermann as they recover,” Troendle stated.
“Our investigators continue to make progress on this case. I appreciate the work our investigators have put in today, as well as the cooperation we’ve received from members of the community. We’re committed to identifying the person responsible and ensuring they are held accountable,” Troendle added.
Troendle noted the fleeing driver is believed to be at fault and faces charges for causing the accident and leaving the scene.
Additional or upgraded charges are possible given the injuries sustained by Kaptur and Zimmermann.
Kaptur, the longest-serving woman in the history of the U.S. House of Representatives, has represented Ohio’s 9th Congressional District since 1983.
The House is currently in its summer recess, so the lawmaker was not expected in Washington this week.
She is locked in a competitive re-election bid this fall against Republican former state legislator Derek Merrin, a race that drew national attention after her narrow victory in 2024.
Lawmakers from both parties offered prayers and well-wishes.
Republican Rep. Andy Biggs of Arizona wrote, “I’m praying for my colleague @RepMarcyKaptur after her crash this morning. May she be restored to full health in short order.”
Ohio Sen. Jon Husted, a Republican, said, “Tina and I are praying for a quick and full recovery for @RepMarcyKaptur. We hope the person responsible for this reckless act is apprehended quickly and held accountable.”
