City Mourns the Passing of Claude Dailey, 64, Following Hit-and-Run Tragedy
October 20, 2025 | [City Name] — The city is grieving the loss of Claude Dailey, a beloved community member whose life was tragically cut short eight days after he was struck in a hit-and-run accident earlier this month. Claude, 64, succumbed to his injuries on Friday, October 10, after a valiant fight for survival in the hospital. The incident occurred on Thursday, October 2, at the intersection of West Broadway and South 28th Street, sending shockwaves through the neighborhood and prompting an outcry for justice.
According to police, Claude was crossing the street shortly after 9:00 p.m. when he was hit by a speeding vehicle that fled the scene without stopping. Witnesses reported seeing a dark-colored sedan traveling at a high speed before the impact. Emergency responders arrived within minutes and transported Claude to [Name of Hospital], where he remained in critical condition in the intensive care unit for over a week.
Despite the tireless efforts of doctors and nurses, Claude’s injuries — including severe head trauma and multiple fractures — proved too extensive. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, who described him as “a kind soul, a devoted father, and a man who gave selflessly to those around him.”
“This is a heartbreaking loss not only for our family but for everyone who knew Claude,” said his daughter, Melissa Dailey, during a statement to local media. “He didn’t deserve to die this way. He was just walking home — something he did every day — and someone took his life and didn’t even stop to help.”
Claude Dailey was a lifelong resident of [City], well known in the West End neighborhood for his warm smile, his community involvement, and his love of jazz music and gardening. A retired postal worker, Claude had been enjoying his golden years volunteering at local food banks and mentoring youth at a nearby community center.
Neighbors describe Claude as a “quiet hero” — someone who never sought recognition but always showed up when help was needed.
“Claude was the kind of man who would shovel a neighbor’s walkway without being asked, who remembered your kids’ birthdays, who made you feel safer just by being there,” said longtime neighbor Ernestine Holloway. “We lost a good man, and we’re heartbroken.”
The hit-and-run has sparked renewed calls for improved traffic safety and pedestrian protections in the West Broadway area, which residents say has long been plagued by reckless driving and inadequate lighting. In response to the tragedy, city officials have pledged to review traffic patterns at the intersection and consider additional measures such as speed bumps, enhanced crosswalk signage, and increased patrols.
“This is a tragedy that should never have happened,” said Councilman Jerome Fields, who represents the district. “We cannot allow our streets to become places where people fear for their lives just crossing the road. We owe it to Claude and his family to make this city safer.”
The vehicle involved in the incident has not yet been located. Investigators are asking for the public’s help in identifying the driver. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is being reviewed, and authorities are encouraging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information about the vehicle to come forward.
Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (XXX) XXX-XXXX or online at [website].
In honor of Claude’s life and legacy, a candlelight vigil will be held on Wednesday, October 22, at 7 p.m. at the intersection where the crash occurred. Community members are encouraged to attend and bring candles, flowers, and messages of remembrance.
As the city comes to terms with this senseless loss, Claude Dailey’s memory will live on — not just in the stories of those who knew him, but in the collective effort to ensure that what happened to him never happens again.
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