A trial date has been set for Jeffrey Atkinson, the bar owner charged with hitting and dragging a 9-year-old girl with his SUV in July 2024. Montgomery County Court records show Atkinson's trial is scheduled for May 18. As previously reported, Atkinson turned left into a crosswalk on Wayne Avenue, striking Ashley Escalante and dragging her nearly half a mile. Escalante required amputation of her leg following the crash. Atkinson was four times over the legal alcohol limit and had marijuana and prescription drugs in his system.

He admitted to being drunk during his arrest. Cowboys Lido Bar, the establishment he owns, was central to tracking him down after witnesses helped police locate him there. Atkinson faces multiple charges including aggravated vehicular assault and endangering children. His pretrial hearing is set for April 30.