Moresee Chatman Obituary, Death – Police in Rochester have released the identity of the man killed in a hit-and-run crash over the weekend. Authorities confirmed the victim as 49-year-old Moresee Chatman, a city resident, who lost his life after being struck by a vehicle while crossing West Broad Street.
According to Capt. Frank Umbrino of the Rochester Police Department, the incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Friday, August 15, near the intersection of Broad Street and Jay Street. Investigators said Chatman was attempting to cross the roadway from west to east when he was hit by a vehicle traveling southbound. The driver did not stop and fled the scene immediately after the collision.
Police initially received reports that the vehicle may have been racing another car at the time of the incident. However, Capt. Umbrino clarified that those early accounts were not accurate. The investigation revealed that no evidence supported claims of street racing. Instead, Chatman had been crossing outside of a designated crosswalk when he was struck.
Despite not being in a crosswalk, investigators emphasized that the driver was still required by law to remain at the scene of the crash and render assistance. Fleeing the scene has turned the case into a fatal hit-and-run, intensifying the urgency of the investigation.
The Rochester Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit is leading the effort to locate both the driver and the vehicle involved. Detectives are currently reviewing available surveillance footage from the area and asking members of the public for help. Police believe that community tips, video evidence, or witness statements could be critical in tracking down the responsible driver.
Authorities urged anyone who may have seen the crash, has video from the area, or possesses information about the vehicle to step forward. They have provided multiple ways to share details with investigators, including calling 911, reaching the Major Crimes Section directly at (585) 428-7157, or submitting anonymous tips through CrimeStoppers at (585) 423-9300. Additionally, information can be sent via email to MajorCrimes@cityofrochester.gov.
The incident has raised renewed concerns in the Rochester community about pedestrian safety and the dangers of reckless driving. Residents in the area say West Broad Street is a busy thoroughfare that often sees speeding and heavy traffic, especially during late evening hours. The fact that the driver fled without stopping has added to the frustration and grief, as family members and neighbors now wait for justice.
Chatman’s death marks another tragic addition to the growing list of fatal pedestrian crashes in the city. Officials are reminding drivers of the importance of vigilance on the roads, urging them to slow down and remain alert, especially in areas where pedestrians frequently cross.
As the investigation continues, Rochester police are determined to bring closure to Chatman’s family by identifying the driver who struck him and left the scene. They stress that with the help of the community, it is only a matter of time before the person responsible is held accountable.
