Hazel Crest authorities are intensifying their investigation into the tragic death of 22-year-old Tamia Costello, who was struck by two vehicles last month. Police have narrowed down the make and model of one of the cars involved in the incident, which has prompted Costello’s family to offer a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
On August 1, at approximately 11:20 p.m., Hazel Crest police responded to reports of a pedestrian accident at the intersection of 173rd and Kedzie Avenue. Witnesses described the harrowing scene in which Costello was initially struck by a white SUV that fled the scene heading north on Kedzie Avenue.
In a tragic turn of events, as Costello lay in the street and witnesses attempted to stop oncoming traffic, she was struck a second time by a black sedan traveling north on Kedzie, which also did not stop. Emergency responders transported her to Advocate South Suburban Hospital in Hazel Crest, but she succumbed to her injuries on August 4, as confirmed by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s office.
Following an extensive investigation, authorities have identified the first vehicle involved as a 2015 or newer Nissan Rogue, white or silver in color. Police have obtained an image of the vehicle and are urging anyone with information regarding this case to contact the Hazel Crest Police Department Detective Division at (708) 335-9640.
The community is rallying around the Costello family during this difficult time, hoping that the reward will encourage individuals with information to come forward.
