Sierra County Sheriff’s Office Secures Arrest in Hit-and-Run Case

SIERRAVILLE – The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation of a vehicle accident that occurred early this morning at the Perry Creek Bridge on Highway 49/89 in Sierraville. The accident involved a single vehicle that caused significant damage to the bridge, private property, and an AT&T telephone pole.

Following an investigation, the Sheriff’s Office secured an arrest warrant for Ashley Karen Burns, the driver of the vehicle, who fled the scene on foot after the crash. The incident resulted in the response of local Sierra County Volunteer Fire personnel, Eastern Plumas Ambulance, and the California Highway Patrol.

The investigation revealed that Ashley Burns not only left the scene of the accident but also actively avoided contact with law enforcement and emergency medical personnel. The sheriff’s office secured an arrest warrant, and Burns was located and arrested without incident. She has been booked into the Plumas County Jail on charges of Hit-and-Run Causing Property Damage (California Vehicle Code section 20002(a)).

By fleeing the scene, Ashley Burns unnecessarily tied up valuable local volunteer resources and limited emergency medical services for nearly two hours, delaying their ability to respond to other potential emergencies. We commend the dedication of our first responders and appreciate our partnership with the California Highway Patrol, which helped bring this investigation to a resolution.

The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office reminds the public that fleeing the scene of an accident is a serious offense. If involved in an accident, individuals are required by law to remain at the scene and notify the proper authorities.