May 14, 2011

Media Release

Re: Auburn Police Request Public’s Assistance Regarding Pedestrian Hit and Run

On Saturday May 14, 2011 at approximately 1:45am, Auburn Police and Auburn Fire
were dispatched to to the area of N. Division Street and West Street on the report of a
pedestrian being struck by a vehicle and the vehicle had fled the scene. Upon Police
arrival the victim identified as Mark A. Sokernyk, a 37 year old Auburn resident was
located lying in the roadway of N. Division Street with his friend who also witnessed the
accident at his side. It was quickly determined that Sokernyk was suffering from a
serious head and right leg injury and was unconcious at the scene. Auburn Fire and TLC
Ambulance responded to treat Sokernyk and Mercy Flight was also dispatched but had to
cancel due to visibility issues. Sokernyk was subsequently transported to Upstate
Medical Center in Syracuse via TLC Ambulance where at the time of this media release
he is listed in critical condition with a brain injury and multiple fractures.

The Auburn Police Department activated its Accident Reconstruction Team who
responded to further investigate the scene which thus far has revealed that Sokernyk was
riding a “Razor” type scooter on N. Division Street, when a dark colored, possibly red
SUV type vehicle traveling southbound on N. Division Street struck Sokernyk with the
driver side front of the vehicle. The suspect vehicle should have damage to the driver
side mirror and possible missing the center cap to one of its wheels. Based on the
evidence left at the scene, the suspect vehicle may be a General Motors brand vehicle.
The witness to the accident stated that after the vehicle struck Sokernyk it never stopped
and continued southbound towards the Arterial and it is unknown if the vehicle turned
onto Clark Street or continued south.

At this time the Auburn Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in
identifying the driver and vehicle involved in this accident. Anyone with information is
encouraged to contact the Auburn Police Department at (315) 253-3231 or Det. Kyle
Platt at (315) 255-4702. Your calls can remain anonymous.

Prepared by: Lt. Shawn Butler

315-255-4705 / sbutler@auburnpolice.net

46 North Street. Auburn, New York 13021-3699. (315) 255-4705. Fax (315) 255-4709