Name of victim in fatal hit-and-run accident at 7th and Gray released

(From the Joplin Police Department)

Update

The victim from this crash has been identified as Eva M. Havelock, age 55 of Joplin, Missouri. Next of kin has been notified. 

The Joplin Police Department Major Crash Team is continuing to investigate this incident. It is believed the vehicle involved was a 2002 to 2005 model Ford Explorer SUV that is black or dark in color. The vehicle would have sustained damage to the front grill and would be missing a headlight assembly, unless already repaired. 

If you have any information on a vehicle matching this description, see a vehicle matching this description, or have any information as to the identity of the driver involved, we ask that you please contact the Joplin Police Department at 417-623-3131. 

An example photo of the make/model vehicle the police department is searching for is shown top left.

Original news release

On January 8th, 2024, at 6:05 p.m. the Joplin Police Department Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call reporting a crash involving a vehicle and a pedestrian near 7th and Gray Avenue. 

Officers responded to the scene and located an adult female with critical injuries. EMS arrived on scene and transported the victim to local hospital.

On January 9th, the victim succumbed to injuries she sustained in the crash. Her identity is being withheld at this time as officers attempt to notify next of kin. 

The vehicle involved in the crash fled the scene prior to officers arriving. According to witnesses, the vehicle is a dark colored SUV. Officers with the Joplin Police Department Major Crash Team responded and are actively working the investigation. 

The initial investigation has indicated the suspect vehicle traveling eastbound and the collision with the pedestrian Police Department 303 E 3rd Street Joplin, Missouri 64801 417-623-3131 occurring near the crosswalk at 7th and Gray Avenue. 

If anyone has any information regarding this crash, you are encouraged to contact the Joplin Police Department at 417-623-3131. Further information may be released as the investigation continues.