Police identify woman killed after being struck by 2 vehicles in Philadelphia; 1 driver fled scene

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Police have identified the woman who died Tuesday night after she was struck by two vehicles, including a hit-and-run driver.

It happened around 8:18 p.m. at the intersection of 49th Street and Lancaster Avenue.

Police say Darlene Gaston, 58, was trying to cross the street when she was struck by the driver of a white Mitsubishi who was speeding.

The impact of the crash sent Gaston into oncoming traffic, where she was hit by a second vehicle. She later died from her injuries.

The driver of the second vehicle remained at the scene.

Police say the driver of the Mitsubishi crashed near the 2000 block of Belmont Avenue and took off.

"Even though that vehicle is unattended, we're holding that for prints and evidence. We'll have it towed, so hopefully, we can get some fingerprints and DNA evidence from inside that vehicle," said Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small.

Small says a witness was able to positively identify the Mitsubishi as the striking vehicle.

"I just can't believe this," said the victim's daughter Ebony Fleming. "She didn't deserve this."

The 58-year-old victim wrapped up work and went to the deli on the corner of 49th Street and Lancaster Avenue before she was set to return home to her wife of 20 years. She never made it.

"Darlene Gaston was a loving mother," said her eldest son Travis Gaston. "How do you take a whole life and flee the scene? That don't sit right with me."

Anthony Gates said he saw first responders at the dangerous intersection Tuesday night.

"I hold my kid's hand when we cross these streets because it seems like cars don't stop," said Gates.

No arrests have been made at this time.

A description of the suspect was not available.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 215-686-TIPS.