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New Bedford Community Mourns as Woman Killed in Unsolved Hit-and-Run on Acushnet Avenue

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Published on January 01, 2026
New Bedford Community Mourns as Woman Killed in Unsolved Hit-and-Run on Acushnet AvenueSource: Google Street View

A tragic hit-and-run incident claimed the life of a New Bedford woman shortly after the commencement of the new year. Nicolassa Ventura Colaj, 33, was leaving a midnight church service with her family when she was fatally struck by an SUV on Acushnet Avenue, as reported by WCVB. The driver involved in the collision did not remain at the scene, and authorities have since been pursuing investigative leads.

The incident occurred just after midnight, and Ventura Colaj was quickly taken to the hospital in an attempt to save her life. Unfortunately, she died from her injuries in the emergency room. The Bristol County District Attorney's Office has not yet released a description of the suspect vehicle, according to NBC Boston.

The investigation into this heartbreaking event is ongoing, with the Massachusetts State Police, New Bedford Police, and the Bristol County District Attorney's Office all collaborating in hopes of shedding light on the circumstances that led to such a sudden and sorrowful end. Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has information to come forward to help law enforcement bring justice for Ventura Colaj and her family.