Pedestrian dies in Barnegat hit-and-run

The search begins for the driver who ran down a 61-year-old Barnegat woman this morning and continued on, leaving her to die and leaving telltale debris behind.

According to Barnegat police, the woman was hit by either an SUV or a pickup truck at about 7:50 AM as she walked Ridgeway Street near Bayview Boulevard.

The victim was rushed to Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin, where she was pronounced dead.

Investigators assessing vehicle shards left on the road believe that it was likely a Chevrolet Silverado, 1999 - 2002 model years, or a Chevrolet Tahoe or Suburban of model years 2000 - 2006. Damage is believed to be on the front right section.

Authorities did not speculate on possible charges facing the driver. However, given the time of day and the likelihood of witnesses, law enforcement officials seek your help to trace the truck and the driver.

Callers can request anonymity. Reach Barnegat PD, 609-698-5000, or the Ocean County Prosecutor's Vehicular Homicide Unit, 732-929-2027.