PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — A 75-year-old man, identified by police as John McDermott, was struck and killed in a hit-and-run crash late Saturday in South Philadelphia, leaving neighbors shaken and a growing memorial at the intersection where he died.
Doorbell camera footage captured the moment the man, who residents say had been walking home with groceries, was hit just after 10:30 p.m. on the 1100 block of South 11th Street. “Terrible. It was a terrible accident,” neighbor Mary said.
Neighbors reported hearing the incident from inside their homes. “I heard this tremendous impact and it was enough that my two dogs jumped out of their dog bed,” said neighbor Joyce Roman.
Police said the driver of a white Ford van lost control and slammed into a parked Chevrolet van, which then struck the victim and pinned him against a Land Rover.
Residents rushed outside and tried to rescue the man.
According to police, the driver initially attempted to help, but fled on foot down Latona Street when efforts to free the victim failed.
George Sawan, the owner of the two damaged vehicles, said the aftermath kept him awake. “It was awful,” he said.
Neighbors described the emotional toll of knowing the driver left the scene. “I can’t imagine what it must take to do that,” said neighbor Allison Riney. “To get out and actually debate what your course of action is going to be and consciously choose to leave.”
Residents said first responders arrived quickly and worked urgently to save the man. “The firefighters were just incredible how they sprung into action and frantically working,” Mary said.
The victim was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. “Whether it’s my neighbor or not, it’s a person. It’s somebody’s father or relative,” Roman said. “To die in the street like that I can’t imagine the horror.”
Riney said the community rallied together after the tragedy. “It’s South Philly and everybody came together and everyone was out here praying. It’s kinda just a sad situation all around.”
Residents said they hope the driver turns themselves in. Police towed the van from the scene and continue to search for the suspect. Anyone with information or video is urged to contact authorities.
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