Deadly Crash Near Axtell Street and South Westnedge Street

The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety is investigating a fatal hit-and-run crash that occurred Wednesday night, leaving a 52-year-old man dead in the roadway.

Officers responded to the scene around 8:45 P.M. near the intersection of Axtell Street and South Westnedge Street. When they arrived, first responders found the victim with serious injuries. He later died at the scene, according to KDPS.

The victim's name will not be released until his family has been notified, the public safety department confirmed.

FUSUS Technology Helps Track Down Suspect Vehicle

Witnesses reported seeing two vehicles driving at high speed in the area when the crash happened. Preliminary investigation suggests the man was struck near the intersection.

FUSUS and LPR technology later helped identify and recover the suspect vehicle in Galesburg without its driver, according to KDPS.

South Westnedge Avenue was closed for several hours as authorities collected evidence and it has since reopened.

Community Sees Police Response

Neighbors in the area told News Channel 3 they saw the police lights and came outside that night to witness what was happening.

"I just came out to my porch and smoked a cigarette and I seen a bunch of cops and I stood out on the balcony and seen that," Gregory Moss said.

Some businesses in the area have provided surveillance video to investigators who may have captured footage of the crash.

Investigation Ongoing

Weather Alert Day threats of severe storms prompted officials to issue warnings Thursday, but investigators remain focused on identifying the people who were inside the suspect vehicle.

The 52-year-old victim's name will also not be released at this time, KDPS confirmed.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information is asked to contact the KDPS Criminal Investigations Division at 269-337-8139 or call Silent Observer anonymously at 269-343-2100.

News Channel 3 sent KDPS a list of follow-up questions seeking additional details about the investigation and is awaiting a response.