Young Missouri man killed by hit-and-run driver
Esteban Hernandez, 19, was killed Saturday night in Laclede County when an unknown vehicle hit him on Missouri 5 and then left the scene.
According to the investigating officer of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Hernandez was walking along the southbound lanes of Missouri 5 when he was hit by the unknown driver. He was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later when his body was discovered.
As of right now, the Highway Patrol does not have a vehicle description nor have any witnesses come forward.
Leaving the scene of a Missouri car accident, even if you do not think there were any injuries, can result in felony charges and jail time. It is grossly irresponsible to leave the scene when a fellow driver or pedestrian may have been hurt.
Hopefully the driver is found and justice is served for this tragic incident. If you have any knowledge that would be helpful in finding the hit-and-run driver, please contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Troop I headquarters at (573) 368 – 2345.
To help pay for funeral expenses, Jones’ family may be able to pursue a claim on his own auto insurance policy for uninsured motorist benefits. Uninsured motorist coverage is designed to protect you should you be involved in an accident with an uninsured or hit-and-run driver, but filing the claim can be complicated. A personal injury attorney should be contacted as soon as possible to provide advice on how to properly handle these claims.
