NEW BEDFORD, MASS. (WHDH) - A woman was killed in a hit-and-run in New Bedford Thursday, according to Bristol Country District Attorney Thomas Quinn.
The victim was identified as Nicolassa Ventura Colaj, 33, of New Bedford.
A preliminary investigation revealed that Colaj and her family were exiting a church gathering at 1805 Acushnet Avenue just after midnight on New Year’s Day. As Colaj crossed the roadway, she was hit by and SUV and thrown a distance. The SUV took off from the area.
Witnesses said walking out of church to that tragic scene was shocking, however the area can be dangerous for pedestrians.
“She was still in the street, unfortunately,” said one man who witnessed the crash. “Any given Saturday or weekend, you always worry about people on this street at night.”
Colaj was taken to the hospital where she was pronounced dead a short time later.
“The person is good woman. Good family. She’s working hard, you know, to put food on the table,” said Adrien Ventura, who knows the family. “In Spanish, [we] say, ‘exigimos justiça,’ to want justice for her.”
As police search for the driver, people who live nearby said they hope someone comes forward.
“Whoever did it should do the right thing and turn themselves in and move forward from there,” said one neighbor. “Prayers for the family and I’m sorry they have to go through this.”
The Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office and the New Bedford Police Department are investigating.
No other details were immediately available.
This is a developing news story; stay with 7NEWS on-air and online for the latest details.
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