STRATFORD, Conn. — Police in Stratford have confirmed that one of two pedestrians struck in a hit-and-run crash last week has died from his injuries. The incident, which occurred along South Avenue, remains under investigation as one victim continues to fight for their life in the hospital.
The victim who died has been identified as James Keno Davis, 35, of Brooklyn, New York. Stratford police said Davis was one of two pedestrians struck by a vehicle on Jan. 9. After the crash, the driver fled the scene without stopping to render aid or call for help, prompting an immediate investigation by authorities.
Following leads developed during the investigation, police said officers were able to locate the suspected vehicle in Bridgeport. Investigators found a black Chevrolet truck with heavy front-end damage consistent with the crash. Police identified the driver as 56-year-old Kevin O’Neill. Authorities said O’Neill admitted that he was driving the vehicle at the time of the incident in Stratford.
O’Neill was arrested and charged with evading responsibility and operating an unregistered motor vehicle. Police said he was released after posting a $1,000 bond and has been given a court date of Jan. 23. The Chevrolet truck was towed by Stratford police and is being held as evidence while the investigation continues.
Police confirmed that on Jan. 10, one day after the crash, Davis succumbed to the injuries he suffered and was pronounced dead. The second pedestrian involved in the hit-and-run has not been identified by police and remained in serious condition at a hospital as of Wednesday morning. Authorities have not released details about the extent of that victim’s injuries.
The deadly incident has raised concerns among residents about pedestrian safety along South Avenue. Stratford police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, including speed, visibility, and whether impairment may have been a factor. Anyone with information about the hit-and-run is urged to contact Stratford police at 203-385-4145 as investigators work to bring full accountability in this tragic case.
