Officials search for hit-and-run driver in fatal crash

Troopers investigating fatal accident

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – A search continues for the driver who killed two women in a hit-and-run crash in Orange County.

Troopers said a woman was driving a beige Toyota through an intersection on Balboa Drive Sunday when a black Volkswagen SUV ran a red light, striking the Toyota.

The driver of the Toyota, 53-year-old Veronica Williams, died at the scene of the crash. Her passenger was identified as her neighbor, 78-year-old Bessie Anderson, who was transported to a hospital and died.

Family members said Williams was giving Anderson a ride when they were struck.

"We lost something very, very precious to us and we miss her, and we want her back, but we know we can't have her back," said Michelle Brown, Williams' niece.  "She didn't deserve this at all, so we (are) just asking and praying for the person that did this to come forward."

Troopers said the man driving the SUV ran away. A woman identified as Shane Joseph, 24, was riding with the man. She was taken to the hospital, and troopers said on Monday that she was cooperating with the investigation.

"I forgive him, but I just want him to make it right.  And whoever the young lady in the car with him, she knows (what happened)," said Barbara Rosetta, the daughter of  one of the victims.

The driver was described as a black man with short hair and was said to be wearing a purple shirt.

The driver could face charges of vehicular homicide and leaving the scene of a crash involving death.

Anyone with information about the crash is urged to call Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS.


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