A tragic hit-and-run in Houston, Texas, has claimed the life of a 19-year-old man, leaving his family heartbroken. The young man was hit by a car while attempting to cross the Gulf Freeway (Interstate 45) on foot Monday night, December 16, around 9:55 p.m., police confirmed.
The victim, whose identity is still being verified, had been crossing the freeway with his brother. According to reports, the brother tried to stop him, but the teen ran into oncoming traffic and was struck by a vehicle heading north. The devastating moment unfolded right in front of his sibling, who could only watch helplessly.
Houston police stated the driver who hit the teenager didn’t stop to help and fled the scene. A piece of the car was recovered at the site, which investigators hope will help track down the driver.
“This is a reminder of how dangerous it is to cross the freeway on foot,” said Sgt. Rose of the Houston Police Department. “There’s no safe way to do it, especially on Interstate 45, one of the deadliest roadways in the country. That’s why we have underpasses designed for pedestrians.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the driver to come forward. Meanwhile, the community is left grappling with the heartbreaking loss of a young life cut short in such a senseless way.