Driver Pleads Not Guilty in Fatal Crash That Killed Former 3News Reporter Bill Safos

Zachary Saliba, the Lakewood man indicted in connection with the December crash that resulted in the death of former 3News reporter Bill Safos, made an appearance for his arraignment in Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court on Thursday. Saliba, aged 29, entered a plea of not guilty to the charge of aggravated vehicular homicide. Maintaining his previous bond of $50,000, a pretrial hearing has been set for May 15.

During the proceedings, a statement was read from a family member of the victim, expressing the profound impact of the loss on their family. The speaker conveyed a plea for justice, highlighting the devastating consequences of reckless driving behaviors. They emphasized the importance of accountability and adherence to traffic laws to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

During the arraignment, Bill Safos’ cousin, Zach Safos, addressed the court. 

The emotional plea from the victim’s family serves as a reminder of the far-reaching effects of such incidents and underscores the importance of responsible driving practices to ensure the safety of all individuals on the road. As the case progresses through the legal system, the hope for justice and closure remains paramount for those affected by this tragic event.

Following the hearing, Saliba’s attorney, Ian Friedman, spoke with 3News.

“Zach has never been in trouble before. We recognize that this is an absolute tragedy – there’s no other way to describe this. The facts, the procedures, the determinations will be made in the courtroom only,” he said. 

Friedman added that his client “has always been very sorry and has wanted to express his sorrow and condolences to the family. That’s been since day one.”

Authorities say Saliba was behind the wheel of a Mercedes that fatally struck Safos as the 58-year-old was crossing Madison Avenue in Lakewood on the evening of Dec. 11, 2024.

Though Safos was in the crosswalk at the time he was hit, police admit the “do not walk” sign was on and that oncoming traffic on Madison had the green light. However, they also claim Saliba was going 47 mph when he struck Safos, 22 mph over the posted speed limit.

Per law enforcement, Safos’ body was carried roughly 200 feet before the Mercedes came to a stop. Officials say Saliba remained at the scene, while Safos later died at Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital.

Since the crash, Safos’ family has also filed a civil lawsuit against Saliba seeking more than $25,000 in damages. In addition, Lakewood residents say the five-way intersection where the collision occurred has been a safety hazard for years, and the city has since added a number of safeguards to the junction while also pledging to conduct a more thorough review of the area.

Safos worked at WKYC from 2003-08 and later spent time at Cleveland 19 News. He was lauded for his versatility and compassion as a journalist, including his coverage of the kidnappings of Amanda Berry and Gina DeJesus before the pair were finally rescued along with Michelle Knight in 2013. Safos developed close relationships with the families of those affected, including sending tulips to DeJesus’ loved ones every Easter.