By: Richard L. Smith
In Elizabeth, a tragic event has resulted in an 11-year state prison sentence for Hassan Kennedy, 32, following his involvement in a fatal hit-and-run accident.
The announcement was made by Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel, alongside Elizabeth Police Director Earl Graves and Police Chief Giacomo Sacca. Union County Superior Court Judge Candido Rodriguez Jr. handed down the sentence, which includes 8 years for 2nd degree Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death and an additional 3 years for 2nd degree Vehicular Homicide.
Kennedy is required to serve at least 85% of the vehicular homicide sentence before parole eligibility.
The incident, which led to the death of 22-year-old Janaya Bailey, occurred in the early hours of August 20, 2020, at the Oakwood Apartment Complex in Elizabeth.
Responding to a 911 call, Elizabeth Police Department officers found Bailey critically injured after being struck by a vehicle.
Despite being rushed to a local hospital, Bailey succumbed to her injuries.
Investigations into the hit-and-run revealed Kennedy's immediate departure from the scene after the collision.
Assistant Prosecutor Melissa Capparuva, who led the prosecution, highlighted the role of witness statements and surveillance footage in identifying Kennedy as the perpetrator.
Union County Prosecutor Daniel expressed gratitude towards the investigative team, particularly Assistant Prosecutor Capparuva and Homicide Task Force Detective Jennifer Smith, for their dedication to achieving justice in this case.
He also voiced hope that the sentencing would offer some measure of solace to those grieving Bailey's untimely death.