A heartbreaking hit-and-run accident early Saturday morning claimed the life of a 43-year-old woman near the intersection of West South Street and Ohio & Erie Canal Way path crosswalk, close to Lakeshore Boulevard in Akron. According to the Akron Police Department, the woman was struck while walking in a crosswalk by a silver Chevrolet Malibu, which immediately fled the scene.
A Life Well Lived: Remembering Clifton Joseph Colston III
Emergency services rushed to the location, but despite swift medical efforts, the woman was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Her identity has not yet been publicly released, pending notification of her next of kin.
Ongoing Investigation and Appeal for Public Help
Authorities are currently searching for the vehicle and driver responsible. The silver Chevrolet Malibu involved is believed to have sustained significant front-end damage, particularly to the headlights, hood, and windshield. Investigators are urging anyone with information—no matter how small—to come forward.
“This was a senseless and heartbreaking act,” said Akron Police Chief Brian Harding, who addressed the media shortly after the incident. “We are calling on the community to help us find the individual responsible and bring justice to the victim and her family.”
How the Community Can Help
Law enforcement has outlined several ways residents can assist in the investigation:
- Contact the Akron Police Detective Bureau at 330‑375‑2490
- Submit anonymous tips by texting TIPCOP followed by your message to 274637
Police emphasize that no detail is too insignificant and that community cooperation is vital in helping close this case.
Evidence Collection Underway
The Akron Major Crimes Unit and Crime Scene Unit responded promptly, processing the site and collecting crucial evidence. Investigators are now:
- Reviewing nearby surveillance footage
- Analyzing physical evidence such as skid marks and paint residue
- Contacting local businesses for potential CCTV video
- Reaching out to auto repair shops, junkyards, and body shops to track down any Malibu brought in with recent front-end damage
This multi-pronged investigation aims to trace the vehicle’s path and identify the driver who fled the scene.
Community in Mourning, Demanding Safer Streets
The incident has shaken Akron, leaving residents heartbroken and angry over the lack of accountability. Many have expressed frustration about pedestrian safety in busy intersections and are demanding improved traffic enforcement and infrastructure changes.
“This is more than just a hit-and-run—it’s a failure of our community to protect its most vulnerable,” one local resident said. “We need safer streets and justice for this woman’s family.”
Police Commitment to Justice
Despite the pain, Akron Police have assured the community that they are dedicating every available resource to solving the case. They are working diligently to keep residents informed while respecting the privacy of the grieving family.
“We will not stop until we find the person responsible,” Chief Harding reiterated. “This city deserves closure, and this family deserves justice.”
A Human Life Lost Too Soon
At the heart of this tragedy is the loss of a human life—a woman whose identity remains protected for now but whose absence will be deeply felt by loved ones and the community alike. Her memory will be honored as the investigation moves forward, with growing hope that answers—and accountability—are on the