Jackson, Mississippi — A 56-year-old woman was killed while walking home with groceries after being struck by a vehicle in Jackson, and investigators say an unusual clue found in a damaged SUV helped them identify a suspect in the fatal hit-and-run.
Patrick Imafidon, 45, was arrested and charged with culpable-negligence manslaughter and felony leaving the scene in connection with the death of Pamela Ellis, according to authorities. A judge later ordered him held on a combined $105,000 bond.
The investigation involved surveillance footage, damage to a vehicle believed to be connected to the collision and information provided by members of the public.
Woman Struck While Walking Home With Groceries
According to a Jackson Police Department press release, the collision occurred at approximately 11:30 p.m. on September 5 near North State Street and Briarwood Drive. Police said Ellis was walking home with her groceries when a white GMC Yukon struck her.
The driver allegedly left the scene rather than remaining to assist the victim. Investigators subsequently began working to identify the vehicle and determine who had been driving it.
The circumstances surrounding Ellis’ final walk home became the focus of an investigation that would eventually lead police to a damaged SUV.
Police Find Unusual Clue in Damaged SUV
Investigators obtained surveillance footage from a nearby business that allegedly showed a GMC Yukon in the area around the time of the collision.
Security video from another business later showed what investigators believed was the same vehicle with heavy damage to its front end. According to police, the SUV also had what appeared to be white Styrofoam plates lodged in its grille.
Investigators said similar material was found at the location where Ellis was struck. That detail became one of the clues examined as police worked to connect the damaged vehicle to the fatal collision.
Authorities have not provided further details about the forensic evidence collected or explained precisely how the material became lodged in the vehicle.
Public Tips Help Investigators Locate the Vehicle
After reviewing available evidence, investigators sought assistance from the public to identify the driver and locate the SUV.
According to the police department, people who shared its request for information and provided tips helped investigators track down the vehicle and identify Imafidon.
The department announced that the vehicle had been recovered on October 7, one day before authorities announced Imafidon’s arrest. The sequence of events highlights how surveillance footage and information from community members can help investigators pursue a hit-and-run case after a driver allegedly leaves the scene.
Police have not released additional details about the specific tip that led them to Imafidon.
Residents Raise Concerns About Speeding
Following the crash, residents told that speeding had long been a concern along North State Street. Vicky McCrimmon described the road as busy, with traffic frequently moving at high speeds.
“You think it’s race city some days of the week. It’s always very busy and very fast traffic. So, you have to be very careful when you go up there, especially with the little kids,” McCrimmon told the station.
Another resident, Amy Montes, emphasized the importance of stopping and seeking help after a collision involving a pedestrian.
“If somebody was to hit anybody with a car, you would hope they would stop and go back. If you can’t stop and go back, please call and get them some help,” Montes said.
Their comments reflected concerns about pedestrian safety and the potential dangers of fast-moving traffic in the area.
Suspect Held on $105,000 Bond
Imafidon appeared in Jackson Municipal Court on October 8, where a judge ordered him held on a total bond of $105,000. The bond was set at $75,000 for the culpable-negligence manslaughter charge and $30,000 for the felony leaving-the-scene charge.
Authorities had not immediately announced when he was scheduled to appear in court again.
The charges represent allegations, and Imafidon is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. Investigators have not publicly disclosed every piece of evidence gathered in the case.
As the legal proceedings move forward, the investigation into Ellis’ death remains a reminder of the potentially devastating consequences of pedestrian collisions and the importance of remaining at the scene after a crash.
What do you think can be done to make busy roads safer for pedestrians? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
