There is an active police search underway for the driver of a vehicle that struck a man in Newark's South Ward on Saturday evening, then sped away from the scene leaving the man to die on the street.
The tragic incident that we've reported on Sunday has the Essex County Prosecutor's Office seeking the public's assistance in coming forward with any information that will assist in the capture of the driver responsible for the fatal hit and run.
**SEE ORIGINAL STORY: https://www.rlsmedia.com/article/pedestrian-killed-vehicle-overnight-newarks-south-ward**
The family of 63-year-old Irvington resident, **Mr. Donald C. Jones,** told RLS Metro Breaking News that Mr. Jones had just transported his wife to the location and stopped to get dinner at a restaurant near the intersection of Elizabeth Avenue and East Peddie Street at around 11:30 p.m.
According to the family's account, Mr. Jones was attempting to cross the four-lane Elizabeth Avenue when a vehicle stopped to allow him to pass but a speeding vehicle traveled around the stopped vehicle and struck Mr. Jones, throwing him several feet with his wife observing the incident in horror.
The unknown vehicle, with tires screeching, then sped away from the scene family members said.
Several good Samaritans and Mr. Jones's wife rushed to his side and provided required medical assistance before EMS arrived and transported him to University Hospital.
According to authorities from the Essex County Prosecutor's Office, Mr. Jones died a short time later.
A father and grandfather of several, Mr. Jones was loved, respected by many, and most importantly, he was somebody family members said.
Authorities have not released a description of the fleeing vehicle, but witnesses believe that the vehicle is a silver or light colored car (possibly an SUV) and could have front end damage. Police have not confirmed this yet.
The suspect wanted for this crime is **innocent until proven guilty in a court of law** upon their capture or surrender to authorities.
The family asks that you please contact authorities if you have any information on this incident.