Austin Police Request Community Assistance in Fatal Hit-and-Run Case

Austin Police Seek Public Help in Fatal Hit-and-Run Incident

AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Police Department (APD) is reaching out to the community for assistance in finding a vehicle that is believed to have played a role in a tragic hit-and-run incident that occurred in South Austin.

Details of the Incident

The incident took place on July 30, just before 1:30 a.m. APD received a call reporting a crash involving a vehicle and a pedestrian in the 1000 block of W. William Cannon Drive. When officers arrived at the scene, they found a pedestrian who had suffered serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle, however, had left the scene before emergency services arrived.

Victim Identified

The pedestrian involved in this accident has been identified as 43-year-old Dustin Hughes. He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. Unfortunately, despite medical efforts, Hughes later died from his injuries. His death marks a significant loss for the community, and the APD is determined to find the responsible party.

Vehicle Description and Appeal for Information

APD has released a description of the vehicle they are seeking. However, specific details about the car’s appearance have not been provided. In their plea to the public, they are asking anyone who may have seen anything unusual or has information about this vehicle to come forward.

Detectives encourage those with information to contact the Austin Police Department directly at their non-emergency line or through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the program’s website at austincrimestoppers.org or by calling 512-472-8477. Your assistance could prove invaluable in bringing the responsible individual to justice.

Statistics on Fatalities

This heartbreaking incident has now been officially marked as Austin’s 46th fatal crash of 2024. So far this year, there have been a total of 49 fatalities due to traffic-related incidents in the area. This places a spotlight on the ongoing issue of roadway safety in Austin, as authorities urge both drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant.

Community Reaction

The community is deeply affected by this tragic event, and many residents have expressed their sadness over the loss of Hughes. It has prompted conversations about the need for greater awareness regarding pedestrian safety and the responsibilities that drivers have toward others on the road.

Conclusion

The Austin Police Department continues to investigate this incident and is hopeful that with the help of the community, they can find the individual responsible for Hughes’ death. As they work to gather more information, they emphasize the necessity for cooperation from the public.

Anyone with knowledge related to this case is urged to step forward. The loss of a life on the streets affects us all, and together, the community can help to ensure that justice is served.