A man died Friday night after a driver hit him while he was crossing FM 1960 in Houston’s Willowbrook area and then took off, police said. Emergency crews found the victim in the 7900 block of FM 1960 West, where he was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators fanned out to nearby parking lots and checked video in search of the vehicle, as reported by the FOX 26 Houston.
The crash was reported around 9:30 p.m. in the 7900 block of FM 1960 West near Highway 249, according to FOX 26 Houston. An HPD sergeant told the outlet the man was walking across the multi‑lane road when he was struck, and the vehicle fled. Investigators said they have a possible lead describing the suspect vehicle as a gray truck.
Location and traffic risks
FM 1960 is one of the region’s busiest frontage roads and has a long history of dangerous collisions, especially where it intersects major feeders like Highway 249. Reporting by the Houston Chronicle has noted how wide, high‑speed corridors with multiple driveways can increase the severity of crashes and heighten risks for people on foot. Neighbors around the Willowbrook Mall area say visibility and lighting are often poor after dark.
What police say
An HPD sergeant described the victim as a Hispanic man possibly in his 40s or 50s and said detectives were canvassing for surveillance video and witnesses, according to FOX 26 Houston. No one has been publicly identified and the investigation is ongoing. Police asked anyone with relevant footage or information to contact investigators.
Not an isolated problem
Fatal pedestrian crashes and hit‑and‑runs along FM 1960 have surfaced in recent years; a recent Hoodline story covered another deadly hit‑and‑run on FM 1960 that led to charges earlier this year. Hoodline noted how those investigations often turn on surveillance and tips. Advocates say busy stretches like this need more lighting and safer crossings.
How to help
Houston police say anyone with information can call HPD’s non‑emergency line at 713‑884‑3131 or contact Crime Stoppers at 713‑222‑TIPS (8477). The City of Houston police reporting page and Crime Stoppers of Houston list resources for submitting tips and video. In an emergency, call 911.
