Key keywords: Lawrence hit-and-run fatality, male pedestrian killed Lawrence, fatal hit-and-run crash Lawrence, Lawrence traffic death investigation, hit-and-run suspect at large Lawrence, Lawrence MA pedestrian accident, 2024 Lawrence traffic fatality Lawrence local authorities confirmed on Thursday that a 38-year-old male pedestrian was killed in a fatal hit-and-run crash that occurred at approximately 7:12 p.m. local time on Wednesday, October 16, at the busy intersection of Hampshire Street and Broadway in downtown Lawrence. The victim, identified as long-time Lawrence resident Carlos Mendez, was crossing the marked crosswalk on the west side of the intersection when he was struck by a dark-colored full-size SUV that failed to stop at the red traffic light, according to initial witness statements. Multiple bystanders called 911 immediately after the collision, but first responders from the Lawrence Fire Department and Lawrence General Hospital EMS team pronounced Mendez dead at the scene after performing life-saving measures for more than 15 minutes. Investigators from the Lawrence Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit noted that the SUV fled the scene northbound on Broadway without stopping to render aid or contact authorities, and is believed to have severe front-end damage including a cracked windshield and broken passenger-side headlight from the impact. As of Thursday afternoon, no suspects have been taken into custody, and police have not released any potential license plate information, citing the active early phase of the investigation. Law enforcement officials are urging any members of the public who were in the area at the time of the crash, or who have dashcam footage from Hampshire Street or Broadway between 7 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, to contact the LPD tip line immediately. The Merrimack Valley Crime Stoppers program has announced a $5,000 cash reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the driver responsible. Local residents noted that the intersection has recorded three non-fatal traffic crashes involving pedestrians in the past 12 months, with multiple community groups submitting requests to the Lawrence Department of Public Works earlier this year for improved crosswalk lighting, speed bumps, and additional traffic signage to reduce collision risks. City officials have not yet responded to requests for comment on the delayed safety upgrades. LPD representatives emphasized that hit-and-run crashes involving fatalities carry a maximum penalty of 15 years in state prison in Massachusetts, and encouraged the driver to turn themselves in to authorities as soon as possible. Mendez’s family, who were notified of his death early Thursday, have requested privacy as they arrange funeral services, and a community vigil is scheduled for Saturday evening at the crash site to honor his memory.