NEW BEDFORD—

A tragic hit-and-run crash claimed the life of Nicolassa Ventura Colaj, 33, in the early hours of New Year’s Day. The New Bedford resident was struck by an SUV just after midnight while crossing the street following a church gathering at 1805 Acushnet Ave., according to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.

Witnesses say Colaj was leaving the festive celebration with her family when the SUV slammed into her, sending her flying across the road. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene without so much as a glance back, leaving behind a shattered family and a community in shock. Emergency responders arrived shortly after the incident, but sadly, Colaj was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

Authorities are now investigating the incident, but no information about the driver or the vehicle has been released to the public. This brazen act of negligence has left many wondering how someone could simply drive away after such a devastating collision.

New Bedford police and Massachusetts State Police are actively pursuing leads in this heartbreaking case, but the absence of a suspect puts a cloud of uncertainty over the investigation. As families celebrate the New Year, they are reminded of the fragility of life and the shocking reality of a hit-and-run.