Sawyer hit-and-run accident ends in arrest

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SAWYER, MI--   A Gwinn man is jailed, following a hit-and-run accident in West Branch Township.

Troopers from the Negaunee Post say the incident happened Monday around 8 p.m. in the parking lot of the Shoppette Store at Sawyer.  Elizabeth Kohtala, 27, of Gwinn was struck by a Chevy Cavalier driven by a 35-year-old man, who then fled the scene.  Troopers say the suspect had been involved in a disturbance in the parking lot and Kohtala was an innocent bystander. 

Based on witness statements the suspect was identified and arrested in Forsyth Township a short time later.  He’s charged with operating while intoxicated, leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, and driving while license suspended.

Kohtala was taken to Marquette General Hospital, treated, and released.