Update: Joplin hit and run victim dies; Driver of dark-colored SUV sought by police

The following news release was issued this morning by Capt. William Davis of the Joplin Police Department:

On January 8th , 2024, at 6:05 p.m. the Joplin Police Department Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call reporting a crash involving a vehicle and a pedestrian near 7th and Gray Avenue.

Officers responded to the scene and located an adult female with critical injuries. EMS arrived on scene and transported the victim to local hospital.

On January 9th, the victim succumbed to injuries she sustained in the crash. Her identity is being withheld at this time as officers attempt to notify next of kin.

The vehicle involved in the crash fled the scene prior to officers arriving. According to witnesses, the vehicle is a dark colored SUV. Officers with the Joplin Police Department Major Crash Team responded and are actively working the investigation.

The initial investigation has indicated the suspect vehicle traveling eastbound and the collision with the pedestrian occurring near the crosswalk at 7th and Gray Avenue.

If anyone has any information regarding this crash, you are encouraged to contact the Joplin Police Department at 417-623-3131.

Further information may be released as the investigation continues.