A 75-year-old man was hit by a pickup truck and pinned beneath it near a bus stop in South Philadelphia late Saturday night, according to police. Emergency crews rushed him to Jefferson Hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Investigators say the driver got out and tried to free the man, then took off on foot.
What police say
Inspector D. F. Pace told reporters the crash happened just after 10:30 p.m. at South 11th and Federal streets in the Passyunk Square neighborhood. Police say a white pickup struck the man as he stood near a bus stop, trapping him underneath. The driver reportedly attempted to help, then left the scene, and investigators are not yet sure which way he ran, according to CBS Philadelphia.
Investigation and tips
The Philadelphia Police Department says the investigation remains active and no suspect has been publicly identified. Anyone who has information, video or photos is asked to contact the department's tip line at 215-686-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online, according to the City of Philadelphia. Officials emphasize that witnesses should not attempt to chase a fleeing driver for safety reasons.
Wider context
Hit-and-run crashes have been on the rise nationwide. A March study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that roughly 15% of police-reported crashes in 2023 involved a driver who left the scene. The report noted that pedestrians and cyclists are hit especially hard, particularly at night. In Philadelphia, deadly hit-and-runs have also made headlines, including a May 24 collision in the Juniata section that killed a 22-year-old man, as reported by The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Legal note
Under Pennsylvania law, drivers involved in crashes that cause injury or death are required to stop, provide aid when possible and share their information. Leaving the scene of such a crash is a felony that can carry mandatory prison time, according to the state vehicle code and the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. Prosecutors typically review the evidence from a crash and may file charges once a suspect is identified.
The investigation into Saturday's fatal hit-and-run is ongoing. Authorities again urged anyone who might know something to call 215-686-TIPS and share any footage or details that could help identify the driver.
