Tragedy struck early Saturday morning in Waterford, Pennsylvania, as the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) from the Girard barracks launched a full investigation into a fatal hit-and-run incident that has left a community shaken and a family in mourning.
At approximately 1:21 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, emergency calls flooded in reporting a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle in the 12000 block of Route 19, a heavily traveled corridor just south of the town center. First responders and state troopers rushed to the scene, only to discover a devastating reality—the driver responsible for the crash had fled without stopping to offer help.
According to investigators, both the pedestrian and the vehicle were traveling southbound on Route 19 when the incident occurred. The victim—whose identity has not yet been released pending family notification—was critically injured in the collision and tragically succumbed to their injuries at the scene or shortly after.
No details have yet been made public about the make, model, or color of the vehicle involved, and authorities are asking anyone who may have been in the area during the early morning hours or who might have surveillance or dashcam footage to come forward immediately.
“This is a heartbreaking case,” said a spokesperson for the Pennsylvania State Police. “Someone out there knows something—whether they saw a suspicious vehicle in the area or have information that could lead us to the driver responsible. We urge the public to help us bring justice to the victim and their family.”
A Plea for Help
State Police are encouraging anyone with information related to this fatal hit-and-run to contact PSP Girard at (814) 898-1641. All tips can be made anonymously, and even the smallest detail could be the key to identifying the vehicle and its driver.
Meanwhile, the community of Waterford is mourning the sudden and violent loss of a life in an incident that could have possibly been survivable had the driver stopped to render aid. The pain of not knowing who was behind the wheel only deepens the sense of injustice.
Community in Shock
Residents of Waterford and surrounding Erie County have taken to social media to express sorrow and outrage over the senseless act. Many are calling for increased lighting and pedestrian safety measures along stretches of Route 19, which has long been known for high-speed traffic and poor visibility at night.
“This could’ve been anyone’s loved one walking home or taking a midnight stroll,” one local resident wrote. “Someone knows who did this. Please come forward.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Pennsylvania State Police are currently reviewing nearby business and traffic cameras, interviewing potential witnesses, and working with forensic experts to gather every clue possible. The area where the crash occurred remained closed to traffic for several hours Saturday morning as investigators processed the scene.
Authorities have not said whether alcohol or speed may have played a role in the crash, but have reiterated that leaving the scene of an accident, especially when it results in injury or death, is a felony offense under Pennsylvania law.
In Memory
As the investigation continues, loved ones of the victim are left with deep grief and unanswered questions. It is a reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of accountability. A simple act of stopping, helping, or calling 911 could have made a difference. Instead, a family is left broken, and a community is left asking: Who did this?
If you know anything—no matter how insignificant it may seem—please call PSP Girard at 814-898-1641. Your call could bring justice, closure, and peace to a grieving family.
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