E. Helena Man Charged In Son’s Death Struck By Car

Officials say an East Helena man who is charged in his son's drowning death is hospitalized in critical condition after being struck by a vehicle while he was either sitting or lying down in the road.

Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton says two members of the East Valley Fire Department saw the vehicle hit 26-year-old Leo Mathis at 9:45 p.m. Friday. Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Havron says Mathis suffered head injuries and severe damage to his right arm.

A Billings Clinic spokeswoman says Mathis was listed in critical condition Sunday.

Mathis recently pleaded not guilty to negligent homicide in the June 22 death of 3-year-old Leo Mathis Jr.

The vehicle that struck Mathis is described as a maroon or rust colored sedan or sport utility vehicle.

Dutton urged the driver to come forward.

Associated Press