A senior tourist died as a result of a hit-and-run near the White House on Wednesday, July 12.
The Secret Service reports that the perpetrator, in an attempt to evade a routine traffic stop, struck several pedestrians.
The Secret Service detailed an officer stopped a blue Honda Accord around 1:30 pm due to an expired license. Despite initially signaling compliance, the driver hurriedly escaped in a southbound direction, according to Lt. Paul Mayhair, spokesperson for the division tasked with safeguarding the presidential residence.
In the course of the escape, the driver ran a red light and collided with several people in a crosswalk close to the White House. Agents, who witnessed the event, provided assistance, however, the driver managed to escape.
The injured individuals included Bing Wong, a 75-year-old man from Philadelphia who died at a local hospital while receiving treatment. Another victim, a 13-year-old girl, was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
“Efforts to locate the suspect are ongoing and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to the family of the deceased,” stated chief Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi on Thursday, July 13. The Park Police is spearheading the investigation.
Law enforcement officers visited the residence of a local man linked to the vehicle in question but did not locate him. The car is reported to have $720 in unresolved speeding fines, according to reports.
