Driver allegedly under influence of cocaine during deadly Lee Co. hit-and-run crash

PHENIX CITY, AL – A Phenix City man is facing allegations of reckless murder after a hit-and-run crash Wednesday night that claimed the life of a Smiths Station man, 42-year-old Joseph Stewart.

Investigators say on June 26, Stewart was operating a motorcycle along Lee Road 248, also known as Summerville Road, when he was struck by a pickup truck around 9:40 that night. Stewart died at the scene due to the injuries sustained in the collision. Investigators allege the pickup truck driver, 53-year-old Craig Smith, drove off from the scene. According to court documents, obtained by WRBL, investigators believe Smith was under the influence of cocaine at the time of the crash.

According to a deposition in the case, investigators believe Smith, the pickup truck’s driver, crossed the centerline, striking Stewart’s motorcycle. Smith’s vehicle was later found approximately three miles from the crash site. Court documents indicate Smith allegedly pulled his truck over along the eastbound lanes on US 280, got out, and fled into the woods. Investigators say Smith then contacted a nearby resident to use their phone to call his mother but failed to notify law enforcement about the crash.

Troopers say Smith told investigators he hit the motorcycle but claimed his brakes were not working, then later altered his statement, suggesting the collision caused the brakes to fail. Smith was read his Miranda Rights and requested an attorney, refusing voluntary consent for a blood draw. A search warrant was obtained to collect a blood sample. Smith was initially held at the Lee County Jail before being transferred to East Alabama Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.

While at the hospital, Smith allegedly made several comments regarding the incident, including missing his turn, which is why he was driving on Lee Road 248. Smith reportedly said he was trying to get to the Love’s gas station to turn around and was attempting to pass a vehicle while driving over 100 mph in a no-passing zone, which led to the deadly collision.

Following his treatment, he was booked back into Lee County Jail for processing. The crash remains under investigation.

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