Kearney Man Charged in Clay County Hit & Run

A Liberty woman was injured, and a Kearney man charged, in an accident Tuesday afternoon in Clay County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the accident occurred on U.S. 69, just south of Northeast 112th Street, when a vehicle driven by 42-year-old Liberty resident Melissa A. Hays was heading northbound.

Troopers say Hays slowed in the left lane of U.S. 69 to prepare for a left turn.

Hays was then struck from behind by 26-year-old Kearney resident Cole M. Roberts.

Troopers say Roberts then fled the scene, but was contacted a short time later.

Hays suffered minor injuries and was taken to Liberty Hospital for treatment.

Authorities say Hays was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

Following the accident, troopers arrested Roberts on preliminary charges of felony leaving the scene of a crash and driving while intoxicated.

Roberts was taken to the Clay County Jail and later released.