Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash Claims Life of Pedestrian Ronald J. Bjella, 61, at Covington and Getz Roads in Fort Wayne, Indiana
One person dead following hit-and-run crash on Fort Wayne’s southwest side Friday night
Information about a suspect has not been provided. The suspect vehicle was traveling westbound and is believed to be a ‘dark colored’ SUV.
Man identified from deadly pedestrian versus vehicle crash
Police say officers are still seeking information and anyone with tips is asked to contact police at 260-427-1222, Crime Stoppers at 260-436-7867 or using the P3 app.
Man killed in hit-and-run on Covington Road identified, suspect still on the loose
Anyone with information regarding the crash is being asked to call the Fort Wayne Police Department at 260 427 1222, Crime Stoppers at 260 436 7867 or on the P3 APP.
A tragic hit-and-run collision on Fort Wayne's southwest side resulted in the death of a male pedestrian on Friday evening, January 31, 2025. The incident occurred around 8:00 p.m. at the intersection of Covington Road and Getz Road. According to the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD), responding officers arrived to find a man in critical condition. Emergency medical services transported the victim to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The suspect vehicle, described as a dark-colored SUV, was traveling westbound at the time of the collision and fled the scene. Law enforcement temporarily closed the intersection while conducting their investigation, and authorities continue to seek information from the public regarding the incident.
Location and Infrastructure The intersection of Covington and Getz Roads represents a significant junction in Fort Wayne's southwest residential district. Covington Road serves as a major east-west thoroughfare connecting multiple residential neighborhoods and commercial areas, while Getz Road provides important north-south access to the region. The intersection is equipped with traffic signals and standard pedestrian crossings. Located near several shopping centers and residential developments, this area typically experiences moderate to heavy traffic during evening hours, particularly on weekends. The surrounding area includes multiple access points to businesses and neighborhoods, creating complex traffic patterns during peak hours.
Legal Rights and Considerations Under Indiana Code § 9-26-1-1.1, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death is a Level 3 felony, carrying significant criminal penalties. Victims' families in fatal hit-and-run cases may pursue wrongful death claims under Indiana Code § 34-23-1-1, which must be filed within two years of the incident. The Indiana Victim Compensation Fund may provide financial assistance for funeral expenses and other costs. Additionally, families may seek compensation through uninsured motorist coverage if the deceased carried such insurance. Potential recoverable damages may include funeral expenses, lost future earnings, and loss of love and companionship, as defined by Indiana statute.
Related Resources:
- Fort Wayne Police Department: (260) 427-1201
- Allen County Crime Stoppers: (260) 436-7867
- Fort Wayne Victim Assistance Program: (260) 427-1205
- Indiana Criminal Justice Institute Victim Services Division
- Allen County Coroner's Office: (260) 449-7389
- Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles Crash Reports
- Fort Wayne Safe Streets Initiative
- Indiana State Police Road Safety Division
What victims of a Fort Wayne pedestrian accident need to know
When someone in Fort Wayne has been hurt in a pedestrian accident, the injuries are often devastating and sometimes fatal. It is important for a pedestrian accident victim to get information about their rights and options. And after a fatal accident, family members need to learn what to do to launch an insurance claim and get compensation for the loss of their loved one.
Since the laws related to Fort Wayne pedestrian accidents are complicated, it is important to speak with an experienced Fort Wayne injury lawyer. Learn more about how a Fort Wayne pedestrian accident attorney can help.