Sentencing Scheduled for Driver in Bill Safos' Death

The 30-year-old man who pleaded guilty to causing the death of former Channel 19 reporter Bill Safos is scheduled to be sentenced Thursday in the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas.

Details of the Incident

According to Lakewood police, Bill Safos was struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross Madison Avenue. He was not utilizing a designated crosswalk at the time of the incident. Officers found Safos in the roadway and he was transported to Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Police Investigation Findings

The police investigation revealed video evidence indicating the driver, Saliba, was engaging in “aggressive traffic offenses” immediately before striking Safos. Following the incident, the city of Lakewood implemented safety improvements at the intersection, including additional signage, designated bike lanes, and high-visibility striping.

Remembering Bill Safos

Safos was a graduate of The Ohio State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s of Journalism. His first reporting position was in the state capitol. He often credited his parents and the Lakewood City School District for his success.

Tributes from Colleagues

Brian Sinclair, Channel 19 News Director, shared his condolences: “Anyone who had the privilege to work with Bill could tell you what a warm and genuine person he was. He cared deeply for his family, his friends, and his community. Bill’s passion for people made him a great reporter and he was right in front on some of the biggest stories in Northeast Ohio. This is a difficult day for everyone who knew him. Our prayers are with his family.”