Man Accused of Killing Woman in Deadly Philadelphia Hit-and-Run

Charles Edward Wright faces murder and other charges for allegedly striking Veronica Herling with such force that it knocked her shoes and jewelry off.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A 37-year-old man in Philadelphia has been charged with murder, homicide by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter, and other counts for a fatal hit-and-run crash that killed 43-year-old Veronica Herling in November 2024. Police say Charles Edward Wright struck Herling with such force in his Nissan Murano SUV that it sent her flying 20 feet into the air, causing her to lose her sneakers and some jewelry.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety and reckless driving in Philadelphia, especially in areas near bridges and highways where drivers often fail to slow down as speed limits change. The case also raises questions about repeat offenders and whether current laws and bail policies are adequate to protect the public.

The details

According to investigators, on the early morning of November 1, 2024, Wright was driving his black Nissan Murano on Levick Street in Philadelphia when he struck Herling as she was crossing the street. The impact was so forceful that it threw Herling 20 feet into the air, causing her to lose her sneakers and some jewelry. Herling was pronounced dead at the scene.

  • The incident occurred around 2:15 a.m. on November 1, 2024.
  • Wright had a preliminary arraignment on March 5, 2026.
  • Wright is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on March 23, 2026.

The players

Charles Edward Wright

A 37-year-old man charged with murder, homicide by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter, and other counts for the fatal hit-and-run crash that killed Veronica Herling.

Veronica Herling

A 43-year-old woman who was killed in the November 2024 hit-and-run crash in Philadelphia.

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What they’re saying

“They keep going straight and they fly. Probably like 10 cars in one year got smacked right there at the same spot.”

— Chanalle Allison, Neighbor (WPVI)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 23, 2026 whether to allow Charles Edward Wright to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the urgent need for improved pedestrian safety measures and stricter enforcement of speed limits, especially in high-risk areas near bridges and highways in Philadelphia. It also raises questions about whether current laws and bail policies are sufficient to hold repeat offenders accountable and protect the public.