TWO PEDESTRIANS INJURED IN PAWTUCKET HIT-AND-RUN; SUSPECT IN CUSTODY
A quiet evening in Pawtucket turned chaotic when a hit-and-run incident on Conant Street left two pedestrians seriously injured and sparked a city-wide search for the fleeing driver.
At approximately 7:30 p.m., emergency responders were dispatched to the area between Martin Court and Star Street after reports that a vehicle had struck two individuals before fleeing the scene. Both victims were rushed to a nearby hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
The Pawtucket Police Department immediately launched an investigation and appealed to the public for information that might identify the suspect vehicle or driver. Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts led authorities to 26-year-old Ailton Vaz of Pawtucket.
Vaz surrendered to police shortly thereafter and was formally charged with two counts of leaving the scene of an accident resulting in personal injury. He was arraigned in the 6th District Court in Providence.
“The safety of our streets is paramount,” said a spokesperson for the Pawtucket Police Department. “Thanks to the cooperation of the community and rapid investigative work, we were able to identify and charge the suspect quickly.”
As the investigation continues, local authorities are urging anyone with further information to come forward. Meanwhile, both victims are recovering under medical supervision.
This incident has once again brought attention to the importance of pedestrian safety and accountability on Rhode Island roads. Local leaders are expected to review measures to improve lighting and surveillance in high-traffic pedestrian areas.
