Richmond, Va. — Authorities are searching for the driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run that occurred on West Main Street late Wednesday night. The collision, which left a woman dead, took place just before 11 p.m. on February 5 in the Fan District.
According to police reports, officers responded to a call about a crash in the 2600 block of West Main Street. Upon arrival, they discovered an unconscious woman lying on the ground after being struck by a dark-colored sedan. She was quickly transported to a nearby hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
The victim was reportedly walking southbound on North Robinson Street when she was crossing West Main Street. Police say the driver of the sedan did not stop after the collision and continued westbound on West Main Street. The incident is now under investigation as a hit-and-run, with authorities working to locate the responsible driver.
Detectives spent Thursday reviewing surveillance footage from businesses in the area to gather more information on the suspect vehicle and the moments leading up to the crash. Ryan Barker, an employee at the nearby Cocky Rooster restaurant, confirmed that although footage was available, it did not capture the actual moment of impact. However, he noted that they were considering upgrading their cameras to extend coverage to the surrounding sidewalk and streets.
Local residents in the area were shaken by the event, with many expressing concern about pedestrian safety at the intersection. Nicole Ghraizi, a nearby resident, described hearing a scream, followed by the sound of cars and a commotion outside her apartment at the time of the incident. “It’s super tragic, not good for anybody, especially the family of the victim,” Ghraizi said. “I feel terrible about it.”
In light of the tragedy, several residents voiced their hopes for improvements in pedestrian safety measures in the neighborhood. Ghraizi shared her concerns about feeling unsafe while crossing the street, even in a marked crosswalk. “I can’t even cross the street,” she said. “I don’t feel like I have the right of way when I’m in the crosswalk anymore.”
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information about the incident or the driver to come forward. The community is left grappling with the loss, hoping that this tragedy may lead to greater attention on pedestrian safety in the area.
