Family of 22-year-old killed in hit-and-run seeks justice through day of action in Little Italy

CHICAGO (WGN) — The family and friends of a 22-year-old woman killed in a hit-and-run on the Lower West Side held a day of action Tuesday, hoping to renew public interest in CPD’s investigation one month after her death.

Marcela Herrera, 22, was walking across the street in the 2000 block of South Ashland Avenue with her fiancé, Mauricio Leyva, around 11:20 p.m. on July 19 when a driver hit both of them and took off.

Herrera and Leyva, who were leaving after working Pilsen’s Taco and Tamales Festival, were both taken to Stroger Hospital, where Herrera was later pronounced dead, and Leyva was treated in critical condition. He has since been released and is recovering from his injuries.

The Chicago Police Department has released images of a dark colored Dodge Journey SUV wanted in connection with the hit-and-run. CPD said the vehicle would have a broken right headlight.

Anyone with information that could help lead CPD toward making an arrest and conviction in their investigation can call 312-745-4521 or file anonymous tips online at cpdtip.org.