A 65-year-old Lockport woman has been identified as the pedestrian killed in a hit-and-run Friday evening on 159th Avenue in Homer Glen. Deputies found the injured woman on eastbound 159th Avenue between Gougar and Cedar roads shortly after 6 p.m. She was taken to Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox, where she was later pronounced dead. Will County authorities say the driver who initially struck her left the scene, while another motorist who hit a dog in the roadway stayed, called 911 and tried to help.
What investigators say
According to FOX 32 Chicago, the early investigation indicates that an eastbound vehicle first struck a dog on 159th Avenue. The driver who hit the dog then discovered the seriously injured woman nearby. That motorist called 911 and, with help from a passerby, attempted to render aid while deputies responded and secured the scene.
Investigators say evidence at the location points to a different vehicle having caused the fatal impact earlier, and that this first driver did not stop after hitting the victim.
Victim identified
The Will County Coroner's Office has identified the victim as Louise M. Vieni, 65, of Lockport. Coroner Laurie Summers told reporters that Vieni was pronounced dead at 6:54 p.m. at Silver Cross Hospital, according to Patch. Officials extended condolences to her family and said the final cause and manner of death will be determined after autopsy and toxicology results are completed.
How to help
The Will County Sheriff's Office is asking anyone who was driving along eastbound 159th Avenue near Gougar and Cedar roads around 6 p.m. Friday and saw anything related to the crash to come forward. Tipsters can call investigators or submit information online, WJOL reports.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Will County Sheriff's Office at 815-727-8575.
Local context
Vieni's death was one of several pedestrian fatalities reported in Will County in the same week, with deadly strikes also reported in Bolingbrook, Romeoville and along I-55, Patch noted. Local officials have urged drivers to slow down and stay alert for pedestrians and pets on suburban roads while these investigations remain open.
Legal note
Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-401), drivers involved in crashes that cause personal injury or death are required to stop at the scene and provide aid. Leaving without stopping can lead to felony charges and driver’s license penalties, according to Justia. Prosecutors will decide on any charges after reviewing the investigation and available evidence.
Investigators continue to examine evidence collected from the scene. For video and ongoing updates, see CBS Chicago. Anyone with information about the incident is urged again to contact the Will County Sheriff's Office.
