Bill Safos Obituary, Death; – A 29-year-old man is currently facing charges related to the death of former Channel 19 Reporter Bill Safos, according to official records.
Safos, aged 58, succumbed to his injuries after being struck by a vehicle on December 11, 2024, while attempting to cross Madison Avenue near Orchard Grove Avenue in Lakewood. City officials have confirmed that Zachary Saliba has been charged with felony aggravated vehicular homicide.
According to Lakewood police, Safos was crossing Madison Avenue from the north to the south and was not using a crosswalk when he was hit by a westbound vehicle. Officers found Safos lying in the roadway, and he was subsequently transported to Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The driver, identified as Saliba, remained at the scene and cooperated with law enforcement. Police investigations revealed video evidence indicating that Saliba was engaging in aggressive traffic violations just before the incident involving Safos. Saliba is facing charges in the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas.
“The death of Bill Safos represents a profound loss for his family, friends, the Lakewood community, and all who knew him. These charges are a significant step toward achieving justice for Bill, a cherished member of our community and a distinguished broadcast journalist.
I commend the Lakewood Police for their thorough investigation, which uncovered additional evidence of the reckless disregard exhibited by the driver responsible for Bill’s untimely death. I also extend my gratitude to the Ohio State Highway Patrol for their support, external review, and expertise, which were instrumental in confirming critical elements of this case,” stated Lakewood Mayor and Safety Director Meghan F. George.
Safos, a Greek immigrant, was raised in Lakewood and often expressed that his achievements were made possible by his parents and the educators in the Lakewood City School District. He credited his kindergarten teacher with helping him learn English. Safos obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from The Ohio State University, and his first reporting position was within the state.
