Man Securing Mattress To Minivan Killed By Hit-And-Run Driver On Lodge Freeway
DETROIT (WWJ) - Police are searching for three suspects in connection with the hit-and-run death of a man who was fatally struck on the shoulder of a Detroit freeway while trying to secure a mattress to the roof of a minivan.
The accident happened around 8:15 p.m. Tuesday on the Lodge Freeway near 7 Mile Road on the city's west side.
Police say a minivan had stopped on the right shoulder of the freeway after the driver and passenger decided to ensure the mattress they were transporting was securely tied to the top of their vehicle.
While they were outside their vehicle securing the mattress to the roof, police say a newer model Dodge Charger lost control and struck their vehicle. The driver of the van was not injured, but the passenger, a 54-year-old Detroit man, received fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Police say the passenger was standing near the rear of the van adjusting the mattress when he was struck.
The suspect driver, along with two other passengers who were in the Charger, fled the scene on foot immediately after the crash. A fourth passenger was arrested at the scene on an unrelated drug charge.
The driver is described as a black male, approximately 6'2" tall. He's believed to have facial injuries as a result of the crash.
One of the passengers who fled the scene on foot is believed to have an injured arm. Police say he was apparently driven away from the scene by a passing motorist who offered help, possibly giving him a ride to a local hospital.
Investigators are looking to speak with anyone who was on the Lodge Freeway (M-10) near 7 Mile around 8:15 p.m. on Tuesday, April 19.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police at 248-584-5740 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP.