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Police: Man arrested on DUI charge also wanted in bicyclist's death
Sunday, March 29, 2009
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Michael ChaneyFAIRFIELD — A man Fairfield police arrested Friday night, March 27, on charges of driving under the influence and driving under suspension also is facing charges in Hamilton County for allegedly hitting and killing a bicyclist with his work truck.
Michael Chaney, 52, of Blackburn Avenue in Fairfield, was wanted on a warrant for the October death of Ronald Rumker, 51, of Ross Twp.
Rumker was riding his bicycle on Ohio 128 in Crosby Twp. near Stricker's Grove amusement park on Oct. 29, 2008, when Chaney's work truck allegedly struck him from behind. Investigators said neither drugs nor alcohol were factors in the accident.
A warrant was issued for Chaney in November, according to Hamilton County Clerk of Court records.
Fairfield police pulled Chaney over at roughly 9:45 p.m. Friday for having a license plate light out.
He was arrested on an operating a vehicle while intoxicated charge after the officer reportedly smelled alcohol and believed Chaney had been drinking, said Fairfield police Sgt. Don Garrett. Garrett said Chaney also was driving on a suspended license.
Chaney was booked in the Hamilton County jail Friday. He pleaded not guilty and was released Saturday on his own recognizance by Judge Heather Russell while awaiting his April 15 court date.
In Butler County, Garrett said he likely will be arraigned Tuesday in Fairfield Municipal Court stemming from his arrest Friday.
Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2175 or jsweigart@coxohio.com.
