CHICAGO, IL — The Belmont Cragin community is in mourning after a 65-year-old woman was struck and killed in a hit-and-run late Sunday night. Chicago Police are currently searching for more information regarding the driver who fled the scene of the fatal collision.
The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m. in the 3100-block of North Central Avenue. According to investigators, the victim was lawfully using a crosswalk when she was hit by a vehicle traveling through the neighborhood.
The Search for the Red Pickup
Witnesses and police reports describe the suspect vehicle as a red pickup truck. After striking the woman, the driver reportedly failed to stop or render aid, instead fleeing the scene at a high rate of speed, heading southbound on Central Avenue.
Emergency responders arrived shortly after the crash, but the woman’s injuries were too severe. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Her identity has not yet been released pending notification of her family.
Investigation Underway
The Chicago Police Department (CPD) Major Accident Investigations Unit has taken over the case. While the driver initially escaped, video footage from the scene later showed officers investigating a red pickup truck nearby that matched the description of the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run.
As of Monday morning, police have not officially confirmed if the vehicle found is the one involved or if any suspects have been taken into custody. No other injuries were reported in connection with the crash.
A Growing Concern for Pedestrian Safety
This fatal incident adds to the growing concerns of Belmont Cragin residents regarding traffic safety and speeding on Central Avenue. The 3100-block area is a busy corridor, and local advocates have frequently called for increased patrols and better lighting to protect pedestrians using crosswalks.
The CPD is urging anyone with information, dashcam footage, or nearby security video to come forward. Even the smallest detail could help bring closure to the victim’s family.
Do you feel safe walking in Belmont Cragin at night? Residents are calling for more accountability for hit-and-run drivers in Chicago. Share your thoughts in the comments below.
If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact the CPD Major Accident Investigations Unit at (312) 745-4521 or submit an anonymous tip at cpdtip.com.
