CLEARFIELD: Robert John Steele Sr., a 42-year-old man from Brockport, is set to stand trial for aggravated assault by vehicle in connection with a severe motorcycle accident that occurred on June 30 in Girard Township. Steele, who faces multiple charges, including aggravated assault, accidents involving death or injury while not licensed, and a series of additional felony and misdemeanor offenses, waived his right to a preliminary hearing on Wednesday during centralized court proceedings. The case will now be sent to the Court of Common Pleas for further legal action. Steele is currently free on $50,000 unsecured bail.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, the incident began when Steele was traveling southbound on the Shawville-Frenchville Highway, north of Deer Creek Road. Steele, who was operating a motorcycle at the time, failed to navigate a curve in the roadway and crossed over the center line. This error led to a violent collision with another vehicle traveling in the opposite direction.

The crash resulted in severe injuries to the victim, who reportedly suffered extensive damage to their left foot. According to medical reports, the victim’s injuries were so serious that their left foot required amputation. In addition to the trauma caused by the collision, Steele’s actions after the crash compounded the severity of the situation. Rather than remaining at the scene to offer assistance or call for help, Steele fled the scene without providing aid to the injured individual.

Steele's actions were further complicated by the fact that he was driving with a suspended driver's license at the time of the accident. His failure to obey traffic laws and remain at the scene only deepened the legal consequences he now faces.

As the investigation unfolded, Steele was identified as a suspect in the crash. According to the criminal complaint, when authorities confronted Steele, he admitted to causing the accident. This confession has become a pivotal piece of evidence in the case. Along with the charges of aggravated assault, Steele faces additional charges, including misdemeanor simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, and an accident involving damage to an attended vehicle. He also faces multiple summary charges related to his actions after leaving the scene of the accident.

In total, Steele's charges paint a picture of a reckless disregard for the safety of others. The combination of the severe injuries to the victim, Steele’s failure to stop and render aid, and his suspended driver’s license at the time of the incident has led to serious legal ramifications.

At his preliminary hearing, Steele chose to waive his right to the hearing, which allowed the case to proceed to the next level in the court system. His decision means that the case will be further evaluated by the court of common pleas, where it will be determined whether or not Steele will face trial for the serious offenses committed that day.

The victim's family has expressed their distress over the incident, noting the emotional and physical toll the crash has taken on their loved one. The victim continues to recover from the life-changing injuries sustained in the crash, with ongoing medical treatments and support required as they adjust to the loss of their foot.

Steele, for his part, remains free on bail, although the charges against him carry the potential for significant legal consequences. The case has drawn attention to the dangers of reckless driving and the severe impact that hit-and-run accidents can have on both the victims and the communities involved.

As the trial approaches, the community watches closely, hoping for justice and accountability in the wake of this tragic accident. The case highlights the importance of responsible driving and the need for accountability when individuals fail to adhere to the law. Steele's trial will be an important step in determining the extent of his responsibility for the life-altering crash and ensuring that he is held accountable for his actions.