"He was a very decent guy:" Restaurant owner remembers 64-year-old man killed in hit-and-run

MILWAUKEE -- A 73-year-old man is in custody after a fatal hit-and-run crash on Milwaukee's south side. It happened on Tuesday evening, November 17th -- and a 64-year-old man died as a result of the crash.

While the case against the driver of the striking vehicle is on its way to the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office, the victim's story is one that some are focusing on.

The crash happened near Layton Boulevard and Rogers Street as rain fell Tuesday evening.

Fatal hit-and-run crash near Layton and Rogers

Milwaukee police have identified the victim as 64-year-old David Montanez.

His story -- involving working to overcome challenges is one that was written about by a magazine reporter.

Marquette Journal

In 2008, the Marquette Journal had an article about Montanez. He was 58 years old, and given a second chance with a job at the Bro-Yo restaurant. The article was entitled: "Broken Yolk, Mended Life."

"He was a very decent guy -- helpful to the customers and to us," Jim Gatto with Bro-Yo restaurant said.

Jim Gatto

Gatto remembers the veteran he helped.

"He helped us clear tables, in the dish room. We fed him, and gave him money occasionally," Gatto said.

Police say Montanez was crossing the street after getting off a County bus when the crash happened.

Police arrested the driver a short time later.

"Right away I said a prayer and I hope he is in a better place," Gatto said.

Fatal hit-and-run crash near Layton and Rogers