Edison Driver Gets Probation In Fatal Hit-And-Run Of Clark Man

CLARK, NJ — An Edison man pleaded guilty and was sentenced to probation for three years in connection with the fatal hit-and-run of a Clark man in October 2020, said Clark Police.

Thiruvenk Srinivasan, 78, of Edison, pleaded guilty to a single count of second-degree leaving the scene of a fatal accident that killed 82-year-old James B. Leinbach of Clark.

In addition to being sentenced to probation for three years, Union County Superior Judge Regina said Srinivasan will have to make restitution to Leinbach's sister for funeral expenses and he will also be required to complete the mature driver's course offered through the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission, said Clark Township Police Department.

Srinivasan's license has been suspended for a year, after which time, the court will decide if his license will be reinstated, said Clark Police.

The Fatal Crash

Just after 6 a.m. on Oct. 20, 2020, Leinbach, was found in the middle of Raritan Road and Clarkton Drive, Ruotolo said.

Leinbach was hit by a car driving east on Raritan Road toward Central Avenue, according to the preliminary investigation.

The car fled the scene after the crash. Leinbach suffered serious injuries and was later pronounced dead, Ruotolo said.

Srinivasan was found to be connected to the crash following an investigation led by the Clark Police Department Traffic and Detective bureaus and Lt. Christian Lott, assisted by members of the Union County Homicide Task Force and the Prosecutor's Office's Cyber Crimes Task Force.

Srinivasan was arrested on Nov. 12, 2020. Read More: Edison Man Charged In Fatal Hit-And-Run Of Clark Man

Candlelight Vigil

A candlelight vigil was held for Leinbach outside of his home on Raritan Road on Oct. 20, 2020. Candles lined the sidewalk and flowers, American flags and a United States Army symbol were placed on a road sign and along the front stoop to his home. Read More: Candlelight Vigil Held For Clark Man Killed In Hit-And-Run

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