DETROIT – Police are investigating a fatal hit-and-run that occurred Thursday morning on Detroit’s east side.
Original Story: 37-year-old man hit by car, killed on Detroit’s east side
Police have identified the victim as 37-year-old Jerry Smith. According to authorities, Smith was leaving a friend’s house at about 3:30 a.m. when he was struck by an unknown driver near the intersection of Frankfort Street and Somerset Avenue.
He was declared dead at the scene.
Family and friends are shocked at the loss of the father of four.
“He was leaving here and next thing you know, we got a phone call,” said family friend, Chesea Perry.
“He was a nice man. He had a kind heart,” Perry added. “He was a very outgoing person. If he could help you, he would.”
Authorities said that shortly after he stepped onto the road, Smith was hit by an unknown driver in a vehicle. Police currently do not have a description of the suspect’s vehicle.
“For someone to do this and keep going. It’s just really horrible,” said family friend, Shawneysa Hemingway-Mcglaun.
Smith’s friends and family are pleading for whoever is responsible to turn themselves in.
“I know mistakes happen. Its just the right thing to turn yourself in,” Perry said.
“Whoever did this, I hope you do have it in your heart to come forward. Just think If it was one of your peoples,” Hemingway-Mcglaun said.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Detroit Police Department or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak-Up.
More: Detroit crime news