Grandfather critically injured in Ohio carjacking, suspect dies in crash

Loved ones say Donald Russell remains hospitalized after being dragged by his stolen vehicle

Feb. 21, 2026 at 5:34pm

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A 38-year-old man assaulted and carjacked Donald Russell, 78, in Toledo, Ohio, leaving Russell critically injured. The suspect, Jessie Moats, crashed Russell's vehicle on Interstate 75 and was killed after being hit by a commercial vehicle.

Why it matters

Carjackings have been on the rise in many U.S. cities, with perpetrators often targeting vulnerable victims. This incident highlights the serious risks and injuries that can result from these violent crimes, as well as the tragic outcomes when suspects flee police.

The details

According to police, Moats assaulted Russell as he was dropping off his granddaughter Anniyah Fell and her boyfriend at a bus stop. Moats then took control of Russell's vehicle, with Russell being dragged nearly half a mile. Russell was found critically injured and transported to a hospital, where he remains in a coma with kidney failure and severe injuries across his body.

  • The carjacking occurred on Thursday afternoon.
  • Russell was found nearly half a mile from the bus stop.

The players

Donald Russell

A 78-year-old grandfather who was the victim of the carjacking and is now hospitalized in critical condition.

Anniyah Fell

Russell's granddaughter, who witnessed the carjacking as she was being dropped off at a bus stop.

Jessie Moats

The 38-year-old suspect who assaulted Russell and stole his vehicle, later dying in a crash while fleeing police.

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What they’re saying

“He has kidney failure. He is in a coma right now, feet are all wrapped up; his whole body is just scratched up.”

— Anniyah Fell, Russell's granddaughter

“He tells me I'm his world, and it breaks my heart to see him like this. We will take all the prayers and the support that we can get.”

— Anniyah Fell, Russell's granddaughter

What’s next

Fell has started a GoFundMe to help cover Russell's medical expenses and care during his recovery.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the devastating impact carjackings can have on victims and their loved ones, and the urgent need for communities to address the rise in these violent crimes through a combination of law enforcement, social services, and crime prevention efforts.