Family of Philadelphia man killed in Washington, D.C. hit-and-run speaks out to Action News
The victim's daughter told Action News she thought she would have more time with her father.
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- On Wednesday, a 75-year-old Philadelphia man, Bing Wong, was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver in Washington, D.C.
Action News Reporter Briana Smith had a chance to learn more about the victim, and sit down with the Wong family as they grapple with the unimaginable loss.
"We never had the chance to say how much we love our father. But dad, we all loved you," said Christine Wong, Bing's daughter.
READ | Philadelphia man killed by driver fleeing Secret Service in Washington, D.C. identified
Christine said her father was so excited about his first trip to Washington, D.C. But sadly, he never returned to his home in Northeast Philadelphia.
"We always encourage him that when you're healthy, you can travel, spend time with family, be happy, just enjoy life. Don't worry about anything. So he did, but that trip took his life," said Christine.
U.S. Park Police said Bing died after he was struck by a hit-and-run driver near the National Mall.
The Secret Service said officers tried to stop the driver for an expired registration, but the driver sped away, ran a red light, and hit Bing and his 13-year-old step-granddaughter.
Fortunately, the teen walked away with only minor scrapes.
Detectives are still searching for the suspect and the blue Honda Accord.
"Everybody makes mistakes, so I feel like coming forward would be the right thing to do, especially to see how a family is suffering," said Crystal Wong, the oldest granddaughter.
Bing's five children and eight grandchildren are trying to grapple with this tragedy.
"I think it really hurts me because I thought I had more time with him, but it's so sudden," said Crystal. "So it just breaks my heart that I won't be able to spend many more moments with him."
The family said Bing cherished his time with family and friends after he retired from being a chef and survived prostate cancer. Now, his family is holding onto those memories to help them heal.
"He was part of my biggest milestones - when I bought my new house (and) my wedding," said Crystal.
"He's a very nice person. He really cared about family. Anyone who needs, he would be there," said Christine.
A gentle soul with a big heart who left his mark on so many lives.
"Not that many people get to spend this much time with their grandparents. So, I'm really lucky to have him," said Crystal.
"We always love you," said Christine. "You're always in our hearts."
The Wong family said Bing loved to go to Double Care Adult Day in Northeast Philadelphia every week.
So, they plan to raise money for the center in honor of Bing.
