A tragic hit-and-run crash on Indianapolis’ near south side has left a family grieving and investigators searching for answers after a man in a wheelchair lost his life.
Police said 50-year-old Earl Cecil Scruggs was seriously injured Sunday night when he was struck by a vehicle near the intersection of East Raymond Street and Shelby Street. Officers with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department responded to the scene around 10 p.m. after receiving reports of a crash involving a pedestrian.
When first responders arrived, they found Scruggs suffering from severe injuries. Emergency crews rushed him to a nearby hospital, but despite medical efforts, he later died from those injuries.
According to investigators, Scruggs was believed to have been in the median area when the collision occurred. Witnesses reported seeing a white pickup truck strike the man before speeding away from the scene without stopping to help or provide information.
The driver reportedly continued westbound on Raymond Street immediately after the crash. Authorities said the vehicle and its driver have not yet been located.
Detectives have launched an active investigation and are working to determine exactly what happened in the moments leading up to the fatal collision. Investigators are reviewing witness accounts and examining any surveillance footage that may help identify the truck involved.
The death of Scruggs has renewed concerns about safety along Raymond Street, a roadway that has seen several serious and fatal crashes in recent months. Community members have continued to raise questions about traffic dangers in the area as officials work to address ongoing safety issues.
For now, the focus remains on finding the driver responsible and providing answers to the family of Earl Cecil Scruggs. Police have not released additional information about a suspect, and the investigation remains ongoing.
