It happened around 10:30p.m. Saturday at 11th and Federal Streets.
Police said a man, 75, was crossing 11th Street when he was hit by the white van, which was traveling north.
Neighbors heard the impact and came outside. One woman said the man was trapped underneath the van, and she watched firefighters work frantically to get him to safety.
The man was taken to Jefferson University Hospital, where he died.
Police continue the search for the driver.