GEORGETOWN, Ohio — A former Ripley councilman was hospitalized after being struck by a vehicle on New Hope White Oak Station Road Tuesday.

Now a Georgetown resident, 47-year-old Rick Eagan is in critical condition at University Hospital in Cincinnati, said a spokesperson for the hospital.

Eagan's brother, Scott Eagan, is a current Ripley councilman.

Rick Eagan was driving northbound on New Hope White Oak Station Road around 6:35 a.m., Tuesday when he struck a deer, Ohio State Trooper Robert King said, and stopped his vehicle in the road, partially left of center.

Eagan was exiting his 1997 Ford Explorer when a 2002 Ford Mustang headed southbound on the road struck the driver's side door and Eagan as he was getting out, King said. Driver of the Mustang was 17-year-old Sardinia resident Michael Babey.

"I don't know why he was getting out or where he was going," King said.

The road was still dark though there appeared to be no fog present, King said. However, heavy fog elsewhere prevented a medical helicopter from being able to come to the scene. King said Eagan was transported by Mount Orab Life Squad to Mercy Mount Orab Hospital and later transferred to University Hospital.

The Mustang sustained moderate damage, King said, while damage was light to the Explorer.

Alcohol is not suspected to be a factor in the accident, which is still under investigation, King said.

Reached at University Hospital, Scott Eagan said he preferred not to comment on the circumstances surrounding the accident or his brother's condition.

"We appreciate everyone's concerns and support," Scott Eagan said.

Contact Misty Maynard at misty.maynard@lee.net.