Waukegan, IL (September 24, 2025) – A 36-year-old pregnant woman and her unborn child lost their lives after a hit-and-run crash on Sunday night, September 21, in Waukegan.
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Police said the incident happened around 9:35 p.m. in the 1100 block of Grand Avenue. Officers arrived to find the victim, later identified as Michelle Heidbrick, lying unresponsive in the westbound lanes. They performed CPR until paramedics arrived and transported her to Vista East Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
The Lake County Coroner’s Office confirmed Heidbrick died from blunt force injuries. Investigators learned she was crossing Grand Avenue southbound when a vehicle struck her and fled without stopping.
On Tuesday, police identified the suspected driver as 49-year-old Waukegan resident Rosalinda Vaca. Authorities said Vaca later turned herself in after realizing she may have been involved. She admitted driving a black 2016 Land Rover SUV that struck something in the roadway but claimed she did not know it was a person.
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Michelle Heidbrick during this tragic time.
Fatal Hit and Run Accidents in Illinois
Hit and run accidents are among the most devastating crashes families can experience. When a driver flees the scene, victims are left without immediate answers, and families often face emotional and financial struggles.
Sadly, Illinois has seen several serious crashes of this kind in recent years, highlighting the ongoing danger pedestrians face when crossing busy roads.
According to national statistics, thousands of people die in pedestrian crashes every year, and a significant number involve drivers who fail to stop. These cases are especially tragic because a prompt response from the driver could sometimes save a life.
Families impacted by a fatal hit and run may face overwhelming challenges, including:
- Unexpected medical costs before a loved one passes away.
- Funeral and burial expenses that create sudden financial strain.
- Loss of income and support when a family member can no longer provide.
- Emotional trauma that affects spouses, children, and extended family.
In Illinois, families who lose loved ones to negligence may be able to file a wrongful death claim with the guidance of a skilled wrongful death lawyer. This type of claim can help recover damages for both financial losses and the deep emotional toll caused by the crash. Holding the responsible driver accountable also helps bring closure and a sense of justice to grieving families.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a serious hit and run accident, we encourage you to speak with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible.
At Ankin Law, we have the experience and dedication to guide families in Illinois through these painful cases. We understand how difficult this time is, and we are here to fight for your rights every step of the way.
Call Ankin Law today at (844) 600-0000 to schedule a free consultation. Together, we can help you pursue justice and the compensation you deserve.
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.
