POMPANO BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - A heartbroken daughter said she wants to find out the identity of the driver who, authorities said, struck and killed her father in Pompano Beach and then fled the scene.
Megan Zukowski met with detectives from the Broward Sheriff’s Office and asked for the public’s help, Thursday morning.
“I came here tonight because I want to plead with the public, with anyone that knows any information about what happened to my father,” she said.
According to investigators, 61-year-old Henry Zukowski was crossing the street along the 1100 block of East Copans Road, at around 5:35 a.m., Sept. 25.
At the same time, officials said, a Honda Civic was traveling westbound along the roadway. In an attempt to avoid hitting the pedestrian, the driver swerved into the left lane but still ended up hitting him.
Detectives said the victim was left in the middle of the roadway, and the driver of the Civic fled the scene.
The driver behind a Toyota Camry traveling on the same road was not able to stop in time and also struck Zukowski.
Pompano Beach Fire Rescue responded to the scene and pronounced Zukowski dead.
“My father didn’t deserve to die like that,” said his daughter as she fought back tears.
The driver behind the wheel of the Camry remained on the scene and cooperated with detectives.
“I understand the first person that hit him must have been so scared themselves, and that’s my guess why they ran, but it’s not right to [not] come forward and say something,” said Zukowski.
Officials said Zukowski was not walking in the pedestrian crosswalk when he crossed the road. His daughter said he was heading to a nearby convenience store to buy a pack of cigarettes.
She added that her father loved music.
“My father was a huge, huge music guy. He loved rock ‘n’ roll,” said Zukowski.
Investigators are searching for a metallic gray, 2014 or 2015, four-door Honda Civic. It is missing the passenger side mirror, which was left behind at the scene.
The vehicle may also have damage to the right-front door and fender.
“We believe the driver does know he was involved in a hit-and-run crash, and he did leave the scene, or she,” said BSO Detective Sean Williams.
“My family can’t start to move on without knowing what happened and why, and why no one’s come forth yet,” said Zukowski. “Any information at all can help us to mend our hearts and to move on.”
If you have any information on this hit-and-run, call Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a $3,000 reward.
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