WCBC

March 30th, 2012 by WCBC Radio

On March 29, 2012, Deputies with the Allegany County Sheriff's Office responded to McMullen Highway near NBCI State Prison for a reported hit and run motor vehicle accident.  Investigation revealed that one vehicle was traveling north on McMullen Highway when another vehicle was which was traveling south crossed the center line and almost struck the north bound vehicle head on.  The north bound vehicle was able to swerve over to the shoulder to avoid the head on collision but the southbound vehicle side swiped the northbound vehicle down the entire driver's side.  The north bound vehicle was occupied by a family to include an 8 YOA child.  The southbound vehicle continued traveling south after striking the northbound vehicle.  Upon searching the area deputies located the suspect vehicle on Steeles Hill Road in Rawlings approximately 8 miles south of the accident scene.  The operator of the suspect vehicle was located and later charged with numerous traffic offenses to include driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while intoxicated, driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, and leaving the scene of an accident.  Alcohol was the contributing factor in the accident.  The Sheriff's Office would like to commend a passing motorist who witnessed the accident and was able to obtain the suspects vehicle registration which ultimately led to the arrest of the suspect.  The suspect was identified as Robert Wesley Knisley, 41 YOA male, resides at 18323 Steeles Hill, Rawlings, Maryland.   Mr. Knisley was later transported to the District Court of Allegany County for a bond hearing and was later released on his own recognize.