A tragic hit-and-run incident claimed the life of a 69-year-old woman in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood on Tuesday night. The victim, identified as Soyfa Athamanah, was crossing the street when she was struck by a black sedan. The driver fled the scene, leaving Athamanah critically injured. Despite being rushed to Illinois Masonic Medical Center, she succumbed to her injuries. Now, her grieving family is pleading for the responsible driver to come forward and provide closure.
The fatal crash occurred around 10:35 p.m. in the 5100 block of North Broadway, according to the Chicago Police Department. Authorities have issued an alert for the driver of the black sedan involved in the incident. The victim’s son revealed that his mother was just steps away from her home when the hit-and-run occurred. The family is desperate for the driver to turn themselves in, seeking answers and understanding.
Surveillance footage captured the moment the vehicle struck Athamanah and then fled the scene. Her daughter, Pany Thomas, expressed her anguish, recounting how her mother was thrown into the air by the impact. Thomas implored the driver to take responsibility, stating that she could forgive them if they explained their actions. Athamanah’s son, Tony Khounphachan, praised his mother’s strength as a single parent who raised him and his siblings, emphasizing her love for cooking and her ever-present smile.
Relatives of Athamanah described her as a vibrant woman who served as the pillar of their family. The crash site now bears flowers in her memory, a testament to the impact she had on those around her. Witnesses at the scene expressed shock at the driver’s callousness as they observed the vehicle speeding away while Athamanah lay injured on the road.
Residents in the area are deeply disturbed by the incident and hope that the police will swiftly apprehend the responsible driver. One resident, Kelly Condon, expressed horror at the lack of concern shown by the hit-and-run perpetrator. Another individual, who chose to remain anonymous, highlighted the ongoing issue of speeding vehicles at the intersection, urging pedestrians to exercise caution when crossing.
At present, no arrests have been made in connection with the hit-and-run. The Chicago Police Department described the suspect’s vehicle as a black sedan, possibly a Honda, with front-end damage. The car was last seen heading north on North Broadway from West Winona Street. Authorities are asking for anyone with information about the driver or the incicdent to come forward and assist in the investigation.