Father Of Five Struck, Killed In North Philadelphia Hit-And-Run
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A father of five was struck and killed in a hit-and-run in North Philadelphia on Monday night. Karon Underwood, who lived in the Frankford section of the city, was crossing the street on the 2900 block of North Broad Street, around 10:20 p.m., when he was struck by an SUV traveling southbound.
Witnesses told police Underwood was crossing underneath a bridge, where there are no crosswalks.
He suffered severe head trauma and was pronounced dead at the scene.
"We did find one witness who stated the vehicle kept going and the only description we have is that it's a silver vehicle," Philadelphia Police Capt. Mark Overwise said.
Underwood was a father to five children, ranging in the age of 2 to 13. Loretta Johnson, Underwood's grandmother, is now wrapping herself in memories and recalling better days that now seem so distant.
"He has two adorable little boys and I was saying when are you going to bring the boys to see me. He said I will bring them to see you, pretty soon. That was the last time I talked to him," Johnson said.
Police are asking for the public's help in finding the driver.
"I would say to the driver, you still have time to do the right thing, turn yourself in. If you're not sure of what hit you, but you have damage to your car, please come forward and tell us what happened," Overwise said.
Underwood's aunt is counting on the driver to have a change of heart and step forward.
"These kids have to grow up now without their father, so we are just asking whoever you are, whoever did this, please turn yourself in, his mother needs some peace. She needs closure to this," Lorene McKnight said. "He was a lovely person who will be truly missed."
A vigil is being planned for Underwood on Wednesday night.
Call police if you know anything about the hit-and-run.
CBS3's Joe Holden contributed to this report.
