Woman on sidewalk struck, killed in Germantown hit-and-run; police say 4 people fled the scene
Police are working to identify the victim. She was wearing scrubs and was possibly in her 40s or 50s.
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A woman was on a sidewalk in the Germantown section of Philadelphia on Thursday night when she was struck and killed by an out-of-control SUV.
Police say four people ran away from the striking vehicle and left her there.
However, police have since taken a person of interest into custody. Investigators say charges are pending further investigation.
"It's crazy because it's a lot of hit and runs around the neighborhood. I have a family member in a hit and run, and she died from it," said Ivy Davis as she walked to work by the crash site.
The pedestrian was struck along Greene Street at West Coulter shortly after 11 p.m.
Police say a white Chevy SUV going north on Greene crossed over into oncoming traffic, jumped the curb, and smashed into a utility pole.
The Chevy continued on the sidewalk where it hit the woman. Police said the vehicle went on another 50 feet before coming back down off the curb and coming to a stop in front of Germantown Friends School.
Arriving police and paramedics found the victim unresponsive. She was pronounced dead.
"This female had no chance. It's a real tragedy. She was dragged - we believe about 15 feet - and possibly run over by this Chevy SUV because she had severe injuries," said Chief Inspector Scott Small.
Police are working to identify the victim. She did not have her ID on her when she was struck. She was wearing scrubs and was possibly in her 40s or 50s.
Police ran the license plate and know who the vehicle is registered to. It will be towed to the impound lot to be searched.
