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An Atlantic Mine man is facing criminal charges after allegedly striking a pedestrian and taking off.
Michigan State Police say the hit-and-run accident happened on Obenhoff Road in Adams Township yesterday afternoon just after 2pm.
31-year-old Benjamin Timothy Riutta was reportedly heading west when his vehicle crossed the centerline, ran off the road and struck a 36-year-old Atlantic Mine woman walking on the side of the street.
After hitting the woman, the driver left the scene but witnesses were able to give police a description of the vehicle.
The Houghton Country Sheriff’s Department was able to locate the vehicle later on and arrested the suspect.
The victim was taken to U.P. Health System Portage. Her condition has not been reported.
Riutta is lodged in the Houghton County Jail and a $25,000 cash bond.
He is charged with failure to stop at scene of accident resulting in serious impairment or death.
The charge is punishable by 5 years in prison and/or a $5000 fine.
Riutta is scheduled for a probable cause hearing March 18th.
