Waterford Township Authorities Seek Public Help in Identifying Driver After Deadly Hit-and-Run Crash
Waterford Township, PA — A tragic incident early Saturday morning has left a community in mourning as state authorities intensify efforts to locate the driver responsible for a fatal hit-and-run. The Pennsylvania State Police Troop E – Erie has launched a full-scale investigation and is urging members of the public to come forward with any information that might help identify the vehicle or individual involved in the crash.
The incident occurred shortly after 1:20 a.m. on July 19, 2025, along the 12900 block of Route 19 South in Waterford Township. Responding troopers found that a pedestrian, whose identity has not yet been released pending family notification, had been fatally struck by a vehicle that left the scene without stopping to render aid or contact authorities.
Preliminary findings suggest that the victim was walking southbound along Route 19 at the time of the incident. Investigators believe that an SUV, also traveling southbound, struck the individual. The impact resulted in severe injuries, and the pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities have not confirmed whether the pedestrian was walking along the shoulder or in the roadway itself.
Troopers are currently working with limited information but believe the SUV may have sustained front-end damage consistent with the impact. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses and homes is being collected and reviewed in hopes of identifying the vehicle’s make, model, or any distinguishing features. They are also exploring forensic evidence from the scene to narrow down the suspect vehicle.
The Pennsylvania State Police are pleading with residents and travelers who may have been in the area at the time of the incident to come forward. Even the smallest piece of information — such as a vehicle seen leaving the area at high speed or any unusual behavior noticed near Route 19 — could prove essential in solving the case.
Investigators are particularly interested in speaking with any individuals who may have dashboard camera footage from that time and location. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and the public is encouraged not to hesitate in reporting anything they believe may be relevant to the ongoing investigation.
The incident has deeply impacted the Waterford Township community, where residents are expressing concern over pedestrian safety along Route 19. Many have voiced their frustrations on social media, highlighting the need for better lighting and sidewalks along the road to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Local authorities are also working in collaboration with state police to increase patrol presence and consider other safety measures along the stretch of highway where the incident occurred. Community leaders have stated that they will advocate for infrastructure improvements and awareness campaigns to protect both pedestrians and drivers.
Anyone with information regarding the vehicle or the identity of the driver is urged to contact Pennsylvania State Police Troop E – Erie immediately. As the investigation continues, loved ones of the victim and the wider community wait for justice and closure.
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