According to Westerville police, Ibrahim Diakite, a 31-year-old immigrant from West Africa who was working for DoorDash, became involved in a minor collision with Danielle Henry, 34. After the crash, Henry allegedly fled the scene in a stolen SUV. Diakite attempted to prevent her escape by confronting her at the intersection of Schrock and Cooper Roads.
Witnesses told authorities that Diakite climbed onto the hood of Henry’s vehicle, trying to stop her from leaving. Police reports indicate that Henry accelerated with Diakite still on the hood, dragging him for hundreds of feet before he was pulled underneath the vehicle and fatally struck. Henry fled the scene immediately. Diakite succumbed to his injuries, leaving his family and local community devastated.
Law enforcement arrested Henry days later. She faces charges including aggravated vehicular homicide and involuntary manslaughter. Police records show that Henry has a criminal history dating back nearly 15 years, with past convictions for weapon possession, assault, theft, and drug offenses.
Diakite’s grieving family described him as a dedicated young man who left his homeland in pursuit of a better life. “He was not just my brother, but my best friend,” said his younger sibling, speaking of Diakite’s hardworking nature and his dreams for the future.
DoorDash issued an official statement expressing deep sorrow and pledging cooperation with law enforcement efforts. “We are horrified by this tragedy and are committed to supporting investigators in their efforts to pursue justice,” the statement read.
The case has reignited concerns about hit-and-run incidents and the need for stronger accountability in traffic crimes. Henry remains in custody at the Franklin County Jail and is scheduled for a court appearance next week as the investigation continues.