Waukegan, IL – A tragic hit-and-run incident claimed the life of Michelle Heidbrick, a pregnant Illinois mother, while she was crossing the street with her fiancé. The incident, which occurred on Sunday night, also resulted in the death of her unborn child, leaving the family and community in shock.
Incident Details
According to police, 49-year-old Rosalinda Vaca allegedly struck Heidbrick with her black 2016 Land Rover SUV while she was crossing the southbound roadway of Grand Avenue near Jackson Street. Witnesses report that Vaca did not stop and continued driving, only realizing the magnitude of the accident after learning of Heidbrick’s death.
“All I heard was a smack,” recounted Charlie Walkanoff, fiancé of the victim, in an emotional interview with WGN.
“Next thing I knew, she’s rolling down the street. They hit my baby so hard. I was trying to yell to get people to call 911, and someone stopped, and they did.”
Heidbrick’s unborn child, who had just turned five months on September 19, also died in the accident.
Charges and Investigation
Vaca has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving death, a felony, according to online court records. Her vehicle has been seized by police and is part of the ongoing investigation by authorities in Lake and McHenry counties.
Police state that Vaca admitted to hitting something but claimed she did not know it was a person at the time. She later surrendered to Waukegan police after learning about the victim’s death.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses identified both Vaca and her Land Rover at the scene. Reports indicate that despite striking Heidbrick, Vaca refused to stop, prompting the hit-and-run charges.
Walkanoff described the harrowing moments:
“My baby didn’t deserve to die that way,” he said, breaking down in tears.
Family Impact
Heidbrick leaves behind an 18-year-old son who recently began college. Her sister noted via a GoFundMe that Heidbrick was pronounced dead at the scene from her injuries.
The family expressed heartbreak, stating they are awaiting the results of the investigation to see if additional charges will be filed.
Court Proceedings
As of Wednesday, Vaca was in custody and awaiting her detention hearing. Authorities continue to review the case as part of the ongoing investigation into the hit-and-run tragedy.
Safety Reminder
Officials remind drivers to remain vigilant, especially in residential and pedestrian-heavy areas, and to always stop immediately after an accident. Hit-and-run incidents are taken seriously and carry severe legal consequences, particularly when fatalities occur.
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