Chicago, IL (May 13, 2026) – A 53-year-old man died after a hit-and-run crash late Tuesday night, May 12, in Chicago’s West Lawn neighborhood. The accident occurred at around 11:12 p.m. in the 6800 block of South Pulaski Road.
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Enrique Nieto had pulled over after getting a flat tire on Pulaski Road. Surveillance video captured the moment an orange Honda SUV, traveling northbound, struck him while he was crouched down changing the tire — and then fled the scene without stopping.
His nephew, Cesar Nieto, was right beside him when the crash happened. Cesar told reporters he jumped out of the way just in time, as he was closest to the rear bumper. Enrique was trapped under the vehicle and dragged several feet before the SUV drove off.
Cesar stayed with his uncle and tried to keep him conscious until help arrived. Emergency units responded and rushed Enrique to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
As of now, no one is in custody in connection with the collision. Authorities continue to investigate the hit-and-run and are working to identify the driver of the orange Honda SUV.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Enrique Nieto during this incredibly difficult time.
Legal Options After a Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident in Illinois
In Illinois, the family of someone killed in a hit-and-run crash may have legal options available, including filing a wrongful death claim. Hit-and-run crashes account for a significant share of pedestrian fatalities across the country each year, and Illinois sees hundreds of these incidents annually. Cases where the at-fault driver flees the scene add an extra layer of difficulty for families already dealing with an enormous loss.
When a loved one dies in a crash caused by another person’s actions, surviving family members may be eligible to seek compensation for funeral and burial costs, lost income, and other damages. Illinois law allows certain family members — typically a spouse, children, or parents — to pursue a wrongful death claim on behalf of the deceased.
One practical concern in hit-and-run cases is that the driver may not be immediately identified. In these situations, uninsured motorist coverage under the victim’s own auto insurance policy may apply. A Chicago wrongful death lawyer can help clarify whether this type of coverage is available and how to pursue it. Gathering evidence early — including surveillance footage, witness accounts, and police reports — can also support the legal process and help build a clearer picture of what happened.
If you lost a family member in a hit-and-run collision in Illinois, our team at Ankin Law can help you understand your available options.
Contact Ankin Law at (844) 600-0000 to speak with our lawyers and learn more about the legal options that may be available to your family.
Note: We use outside sources such as news reports, police reports, social media platforms, and first-hand or eyewitness accounts about accidents that happen throughout the state of Illinois. We have not verified any of the facts surrounding this particular accident. Please contact Ankin Law, LLC, if you locate any incorrect information in our post. We will correct it immediately or remove a post if requested.
Disclaimer: This post is not intended as a solicitation for business. It’s vital to understand that these posts do not offer legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Legal outcomes can differ based on individual circumstances. For personalized legal guidance, please reach out directly to Ankin Law, LLC. The featured image used in this post was not taken at the accident scene.
