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Man Charged for Hitting and Dragging Young Girl with Car
Jeffrey Atkinson's trial set for May 18 after 2024 incident that left 9-year-old with amputated leg.
Published on Feb. 11, 2026
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A trial date has been set for Jeffrey Atkinson, the man accused of hitting and dragging a young girl with his car in Dayton, Ohio in 2024. Atkinson is facing several charges, including endangering children, aggravated vehicular assault, and OVI, after allegedly turning left into a crosswalk and striking 9-year-old Ashley Escalante, dragging her for nearly half a mile. Escalante suffered severe injuries and had to have her leg amputated as a result of the crash.
Why it matters
This case highlights the tragic consequences of drunk driving and the need for stronger enforcement and penalties to deter such reckless behavior that puts innocent lives at risk. The incident has deeply impacted the victim, her family, and the broader community.
The details
According to police, in July 2024, Atkinson turned left into a crosswalk on Wayne Avenue, hitting Ashley Escalante and dragging her for nearly half a mile. Witnesses helped police track Atkinson down at the bar he owns, Cowboys Lido Bar, where he was arrested. Atkinson's blood alcohol level was four times the legal limit, and he also had marijuana and a prescription drug that causes drowsiness in his system at the time of the crash.
- In July 2024, the incident occurred where Atkinson hit and dragged Ashley Escalante.
- Atkinson's trial has been set for May 18, 2026.
- Atkinson is scheduled to appear in court for a pretrial hearing on April 30, 2026.
The players
Jeffrey Atkinson
The man accused of hitting and dragging a young girl with his car in 2024, resulting in severe injuries. He is facing several charges including endangering children, aggravated vehicular assault, and OVI.
Ashley Escalante
The 9-year-old girl who was hit and dragged by Atkinson's car in 2024, suffering severe injuries that required her leg to be amputated.
Sgt. Gordon Cairns
The Commander of Dayton Police's Traffic Services Unit who commented on the tragic nature of the incident and the need to hold impaired drivers accountable.
What they’re saying
“I just want to say to him that I hope the Lord forgives him for what he has done to me.”
— Ashley Escalante (WHIO-TV)
“A person got behind the wheel at four times the legal limit and now a girl's life and her family, and the community, has changed forever because of that.”
— Sgt. Gordon Cairns, Commander of Dayton Police's Traffic Services Unit (WHIO-TV)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on April 30 whether to allow Jeffrey Atkinson out on bail before his trial, which is scheduled to begin on May 18.
The takeaway
This tragic incident underscores the devastating impact of drunk driving and the urgent need for stronger measures to prevent such reckless behavior that puts innocent lives at risk. The community must come together to support the victim and her family, while also pushing for harsher penalties and increased enforcement to deter impaired driving and protect public safety.
