Pittsfield Police Seek Driver Who Killed Pedestrian and Dragged Body Across City

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Pittsfield police are searching for a hit-and-run driver who struck and killed 69-year-old William S. Colbert, a Pittsfield resident, and then dragged his body "a lengthy distance" across the city. After the initial crash, police were unable to locate the victim or the driver, but later found Colbert's lifeless body nearly 4 miles away on West Housatonic Street.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers pedestrians face on Pittsfield's streets, with more than half of traffic fatality victims in the city being pedestrians or cyclists. The intersection where the crash occurred is in a residential area, raising concerns about traffic safety and the need for measures to protect vulnerable road users.

The details

According to the District Attorney's press release, police suspect the driver "trapped (Colbert) under the vehicle" and dragged his body "a lengthy distance" across the city. The intersection of Linden Street and Francis Avenue, where the crash was reported, is in a relatively densely-populated residential neighborhood with a corner store, traffic light, and marked crosswalks.

• The incident occurred late Tuesday night.

What’s next

Pittsfield police are actively investigating the incident and searching for the driver responsible. The District Attorney's office is also involved in the case.