Jeannette man charged in fatal hit-and-run that killed 19-year-old on E-Bike
HEMPFIELD TOWNSHIP, PA — A 37-year-old man from Jeannette is facing a series of serious charges after Pennsylvania State Police say he struck and killed a teenager on an E-Bike in a July hit-and-run, then attempted to hide his involvement.
William Sever has been charged with multiple crimes, including accidents involving death, tampering with evidence, driving without a license, and failure to render aid, in connection with the crash that killed 19-year-old Jayden Lynch of Jeannette.
According to state police, Lynch was riding an E-Bike on North Greengate Road near College Avenue when he was hit by a vehicle that fled the scene. Two other drivers arrived shortly afterward and described seeing a vehicle braking and speeding away on Route 130, but did not witness the collision itself.
Troopers used debris left at the crash site to determine the likely make and model of the vehicle involved. Further investigation using traffic cameras and license plate readers led them to a damaged car parked at a residence in Jeannette. A search warrant was executed, and both the registered owner of the car and Sever were found inside.
The vehicle owner allegedly told investigators he had loaned the vehicle to Sever the night of the crash. Police say surveillance video, cell phone records, and witness statements place Sever behind the wheel at the time of the fatal incident.
Troopers also reported finding duct tape on the driver’s side mirror, which they believe was used in an attempt to cover up the damage. Sever was also driving on a suspended license related to a prior DUI conviction, police confirmed.
Lynch’s death and the ensuing investigation have prompted renewed concern over traffic safety and accountability in hit-and-run cases. The case remains active as of Wednesday.
Anyone with information on Sever’s whereabouts is asked to contact Pennsylvania State Police at the Greensburg barracks at 724-832-3288.
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Key Points
- William Sever, 37, is charged in a hit-and-run that killed 19-year-old Jayden Lynch in July
- Police tracked Sever using debris evidence, video surveillance, and cell data
- Sever was reportedly driving without a license and tried to cover vehicle damage