Portsmouth Police are investigating after a semi-truck struck a utility pole at 3rd and Marshall Avenue around 2:30 p.m. and then left the scene.
When officers arrived, they found the pole cracked and leaning, still held up only by wires. The truck was nowhere to be found. AEP responded and said traffic control may be needed later but didn’t believe power service would be disrupted.
Why Hitting a Pole Is Like Hitting a Car
Police reminded drivers that leaving the scene of a crash isn’t just about vehicles. Under Ohio law, if you strike any property—including utility poles, guardrails, or fences—you’re required to stop and report it.
A damaged pole can create serious hazards, from live electrical wires to road blockages. Walking away puts others at risk and can add hit-skip charges on top of the damage costs.
The semi driver may have thought leaving was easier than facing the damage, but police say it’s no different than hitting another car: if you cause it, you’re responsible.
The case remains under investigation.
