Pedestrian killed in Bridgeview hit-and-run

Driver charged after striking man crossing street near local bar

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:50pm

A 35-year-old man was struck and killed in a hit-and-run incident early Sunday morning in the southwest Chicago suburb of Bridgeview. Police have charged the driver, Abigail Mason of Cicero, with leaving the scene of a fatal crash.

Why it matters

Hit-and-run crashes are an ongoing public safety concern in the Chicago area, with many incidents resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. This case highlights the need for drivers to remain at the scene and cooperate with authorities when involved in a collision.

The details

According to police, around 1:35 a.m. on Sunday, Juan Villagomez and his wife Claudia were crossing Harlem Avenue from the area of The Krash bar when Abigail Mason's red Chevrolet Impala, traveling in the median lane, struck Juan. Mason initially believed she had hit a dog and fled the scene, but was later tracked down and charged.

  • The incident occurred around 1:35 a.m. on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
  • Juan Villagomez was transported to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, where he was pronounced dead.

The players

Juan Villagomez

A 35-year-old pedestrian who was struck and killed in the hit-and-run incident.

Claudia Villagomez

The wife of Juan Villagomez, who was crossing the street with him when the incident occurred.

Abigail Mason

The 42-year-old driver of the red Chevrolet Impala that struck and killed Juan Villagomez, who was charged with leaving the scene of a fatal crash.

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What’s next

Abigail Mason is expected to appear in court in the coming weeks to face charges related to the fatal hit-and-run incident.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the importance of drivers remaining at the scene of a collision and cooperating with authorities, as well as the need for continued efforts to improve pedestrian safety in the Chicago region.