Milwaukee fatal hit-and-run crash; police search for vehicle

Milwaukee fatal hit-and-run crash, search for striking vehicle

Police say a 48-year-old pedestrian was killed in a hit-and-run in Milwaukee on Sunday near 35th and Greenfield.

MILWAUKEE - Police are searching for a truck wanted in connection with a fatal hit-and-run on Milwaukee’s south side.

Fatal crash

What we know:

The crash happened just before 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, near 35th and Greenfield.

The Milwaukee Police Department said a truck struck and killed a 48-year-old pedestrian before leaving the scene. The pedestrian died at the hospital. 

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The vehicle is described as a 2008 GMC pickup with Iowa plate PZP172. Authorities said it may also have minor damage to the hood or grille.

Neighbors express concern

Local perspective:

Neighbors who live in the area say something needs to change at the intersection.

"If you’re not in a vehicle you’re pretty much not safe. It is dangerous," said Ruben Casarez, who has lived nearby for years. "It’s like they don’t pay attention to the stop lights. People run red lights all the time."

He said it’s one of the most dangerous intersections he has lived at. He saw the aftermath of the fatal hit-and-run.

"It is insane," Casarez said. "I just wish it was different around here and people were more responsible for what they do."

Zili Zhou has lived in the area for more than 20 years. He said accidents at the intersection happen weekly, including one that he said was less than 24 hours before the fatal incident.

"Even though we have a lot of car accidents, we never have the people get killed," Zhou said. "More accidents than ever that I see."

The city responds

Dig deeper:

Zhou said he has asked the city for better signs and a review of accident reports, saying recent changes to the intersection have made it more confusing.

The Department of Public Works said it is planning to make improvements to the intersection later this summer and into fall, including new pavement markings and a bump-out.

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Casarez said he hopes simple caution from drivers could save lives.

"I just wish everybody would obey the street signs and stop lights," he said.

MPD tips

What you can do:

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the MPD at 414-935-7360 or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 414-224-TIPS or use the P3 Tips app.