MILLCREEK, Utah — The Unified Police Department is asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect in a hit-and-run that ultimately claimed the life of the victim.
The Unified Police Department says around 6 a.m. Saturday, a driver hit a cat near 3051 South and 2300 East in Millcreek. That cat was Mike Fitzgerald's cat, Tess, who was killed. UPD says the driver got out of their vehicle to help the cat when they were hit by what police believe is a silver truck or SUV seen in surveillance footage.
"When they hit this individual, they stopped, then you can hear a little bit of silence and then you can hear a door shut, and the vehicle drives away at a high rate of speed," said Fitzgerald, speaking about what he saw in his surveillance footage.
"Any time you hit someone, it's important to stay on scene and explain to us what occurred," said Sgt. Aymee Race with the Unified Police Department. "Unfortunately, we have someone in the hospital that we can't give answers to the family about what happened."
The person hit was in critical condition at a local hospital. Police gave an update on Sunday, saying she died from her injuries. She was identified as 23-year-old Lindsey Vanorman.
Police are still searching for the suspect. A white truck and black SUV also went by the area near the time of the incident and may have been witnesses.
Fitzgerald says it was shocking to see the number of cars that continued speeding by even as he says the victim's car was in the middle of the road with its flashers on.
"It's just odd. I mean, come on — slow down," he said.
The Unified Police Department hopes someone comes forward with information so they can get answers for the victim and her family.
"We do hope that people come forward or if they could check their cameras along this intersection within that area, it would really help us," Sgt. Race said.
If you have any information about the hit-and-run, you're asked to contact the Unified Police Department at 801-840-4000. Tips can be made anonymously.
