CHICAGO — A late-night hit-and-run crash has claimed the life of a 79-year-old man in Chicago’s Near West Side, according to the Chicago Police Department. The crash, which occurred Tuesday night, has prompted an ongoing investigation as police search for the driver responsible.
Incident Overview
The crash happened just before 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28, near the 2400 block of West Jackson Boulevard. A witness reported that a black sedan traveling southbound on South Western Avenue sped through a red light and struck a white sedan that was heading west on Jackson.
The impact left both vehicles severely damaged. The black sedan’s driver reportedly abandoned the car and fled the scene on foot before authorities arrived.
Victims Identified
Inside the white sedan were two victims: a 79-year-old man driving the car and a 62-year-old woman in the passenger seat. Emergency responders transported both individuals to a nearby hospital. The man was later pronounced dead due to trauma sustained in the collision. The woman’s condition remains unknown at this time.
Authorities have not released the identity of either victim pending family notification.
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Investigation Underway
Chicago’s Major Accidents Unit responded to the crash site and remained on the scene for several hours collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing nearby surveillance footage.
Investigators believe the suspect may have exited the vehicle and fled on foot into nearby neighborhoods. The black sedan has been impounded as part of the investigation.
As of now, no arrests have been made, and police have not shared a physical description of the suspect. Authorities are urging anyone with information or security footage from the area to contact CPD.
Community Response and Safety Concerns
This fatal hit-and-run adds to a growing number of traffic-related deaths in Chicago’s residential neighborhoods. Road safety advocates have called for stricter enforcement at intersections known for speeding and traffic violations.
The 2400 block of West Jackson Boulevard sits near schools and family housing complexes, heightening community concern.
Local leaders have emphasized the importance of community cooperation in identifying hit-and-run drivers and bringing justice to affected families.
Do you live near the Near West Side or commute through this area? Have you noticed increased reckless driving or safety concerns in recent months? Share your experiences or thoughts in the comments.
Stay with ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com for updates on this developing investigation and other local news impacting our neighborhoods.