John Corbett Obituary, Death: he Richland County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim of a fatal hit-and-run in Columbia last week as 71-year-old John Corbett. However, the search for the driver responsible for the collision remains ongoing.
Details of the Incident
The accident occurred on December 19 at approximately 6 p.m. in the 5400 block of Farrow Road. According to officials, Corbett was struck and killed by a vehicle while walking in the area. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Investigation and Search for the Suspect
The Columbia Police Department is actively investigating the case but has yet to make an arrest. On Friday, authorities released surveillance images of a vehicle suspected to be involved in the crash. The vehicle is described as a burgundy Ford F150, possibly from model years 2013 to 2017. Police noted that the truck has a missing driver’s side hubcap and dark-tinted windows.
Collaboration Between Agencies
The Richland County Coroner’s Office is assisting with the investigation. Coroner Naida Rutherford expressed her office’s commitment to working alongside the Columbia Police Department to uncover the circumstances of the crash and bring justice to Corbett’s family.
“We will continue working with the Columbia Police Department to fully investigate this hit-and-run crash,” Rutherford said in a statement.
Appeal to the Public
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident or the suspect vehicle to come forward. They believe that tips from the public could play a crucial role in solving the case.
Individuals with information are encouraged to contact Crimestoppers at 888-CRIME-SC (888-274-6372). Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crimestoppers’ website or mobile app.
Community Reaction
Corbett’s death has left the Columbia community saddened and concerned about safety on local roads. The hit-and-run incident has sparked conversations about driver accountability and pedestrian safety. Many residents are hoping for a swift resolution to the case and for the responsible party to be held accountable.
The Role of Surveillance Footage
Surveillance footage often proves invaluable in cases like this. Investigators hope that the released images of the truck will lead to new leads. However, challenges remain in identifying the driver, especially if the vehicle has been altered or hidden since the crash.
Raising Awareness About Hit-and-Runs
Hit-and-run incidents are a growing concern nationwide, as they not only result in tragic losses but also leave families without closure. Law enforcement agencies continue to stress the importance of drivers staying at the scene of an accident, regardless of the circumstances.
Safety Measures for Pedestrians
While the circumstances surrounding Corbett’s death are still under investigation, pedestrian safety remains a critical issue. Public safety officials recommend that pedestrians wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night and use designated crosswalks when possible.
Support for the Victim’s Family
Losing a loved one in such a sudden and violent manner is devastating. Community members and local organizations often come together in cases like this to offer support to grieving families. It is unclear at this time whether any memorial services have been planned for Corbett.
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, authorities remain hopeful that the release of vehicle images and public cooperation will help identify the suspect. The Columbia Police Department and Richland County Coroner’s Office are determined to bring justice to John Corbett and his family.
Conclusion
The hit-and-run that claimed the life of 71-year-old John Corbett is a tragic reminder of the importance of road safety and accountability. While investigators work to locate the driver responsible, they urge the community to come forward with any information that could aid in solving the case.
The combined efforts of law enforcement, the coroner’s office, and the public will be essential in seeking justice for Corbett and ensuring that such incidents are prevented in the future.