WASHINGTON, D.C. — A pedestrian was struck and killed in a hit and run early Wednesday in Northwest D.C., and investigators believe the same vehicle was involved in two robberies just minutes before the fatal crash.
The incident occurred around 4:15 a.m. at the intersection of 12th Street and U Street NW, where officers arrived to find a man lying in the roadway, unconscious and not breathing. Despite emergency efforts, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
He has been identified as 55-year-old Donnel Bracket Phillips of Northeast, D.C.
Preliminary findings indicate Phillips was in a marked crosswalk when he was hit by a white Hyundai Santa Fe. The vehicle fled the scene before police arrived. Investigators believe that same SUV was involved in two robberies earlier that morning.
At approximately 3:37 a.m., suspects in a white SUV robbed a victim by force in the 1700 block of Irving Street NW. Four minutes later, at 3:41 a.m., a second robbery took place near 14th and Newton Street NW involving the same vehicle description.
Surveillance images released as police seek robbery and hit-and-run suspects
Surveillance cameras captured images of the suspect vehicle, and police have released those photos as they seek public assistance in locating it. The SUV was seen fleeing both robbery scenes and the fatal crash site.
No arrests have been made, and police have not yet released descriptions of the suspects believed to have been inside the vehicle during the crime spree.
The Metropolitan Police Department is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment in connection with these incidents.
Anyone with knowledge of the vehicle or individuals involved is urged to call (202) 727-9099 or text 50411. Tipsters can remain anonymous.