Arrest Made in Deadly Vehicle vs. Pedestrian Accident

Staff Report

A driver has been charged in connection with a pedestrian fatality on Victory Drive that claimed the life of a 43-year-old woman.

Columbus police responded to the 3600 block of Victory Drive on December 10, 2024, after reports of a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle. Officers found Heather Spillers with severe injuries, and the department’s Motor Squad took over the investigation.

Spillers succumbed to her injuries the following day.

The investigation has now identified James Lane as the driver involved.

On Jan. 14, 2025, Lane was arrested and charged with multiple misdemeanors, including homicide by vehicle in the second degree, failure to exercise due care in relation to pedestrians, and obstruction.

Lane is scheduled for a preliminary hearing at 8 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 16 in Recorder’s Court.