A young bicyclist was killed in a devastating hit-and-run crash on Chicago’s Southwest Side early Sunday morning, leaving a family grieving and authorities searching for the driver responsible.
The fatal crash happened around 1:20 a.m. near 63rd Street and Kedzie Avenue in the city’s Chicago Lawn neighborhood. According to CBS Chicago, an 18-year-old bicyclist identified as Damian Gomez was riding through the intersection when a red SUV allegedly sped through a red light and struck him.
The impact was severe, and Gomez was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities say the SUV continued forward after hitting the bicyclist and then crashed into another vehicle in the intersection.
Police reported that the driver of the SUV fled the scene on foot before officers arrived. As of now, no one has been taken into custody, and investigators are continuing to search for the suspect.
Two other people were injured in the crash. A 22-year-old woman who was inside the SUV was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Meanwhile, a 60-year-old woman who was inside the second vehicle involved was treated at the scene.
Family members shared that Gomez had been working at the time of the crash, making food deliveries on his bicycle to earn money. His sudden death has left loved ones heartbroken and searching for answers.
The tragic incident highlights the ongoing issue of hit-and-run crashes across Chicago, as community members continue to call for safer streets and accountability for reckless drivers.
Police are urging anyone with information about the crash or the driver who fled the scene to come forward. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to identify and locate the individual responsible for the deadly collision.
