Sharmain Serrano – A tragic incident in the Feltonville section of North Philadelphia has left a 39-year-old woman dead after what police believe was a hit-and-run crash on Sunday night.
According to the Philadelphia Police Department, the incident occurred around 11:41 p.m. Monday when a passerby reported finding a woman’s body in the roadway at the intersection of C and Ruscomb streets. Responding officers discovered the woman, later identified as Sharmain Serrano, unresponsive. She was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead at approximately 12:19 a.m.
Police believe that Serrano was struck by a gray sedan while she was entering the crosswalk. Authorities are treating the incident as a hit-and-run and have launched an active investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The Philadelphia Police noted that there are multiple surveillance cameras in the area that may help investigators identify the vehicle involved. Officers are reviewing footage and seeking any additional information that could assist in the case.
Neighbors in the area described the intersection as particularly dangerous. At least four residents told NBC10 reporter Lili Zheng that speeding is common on C Street. One woman shared that she was struck by a car at the same intersection in 2022, resulting in serious injuries. She recounted that her leg was reconstructed with metal after the accident and emphasized the importance of drivers slowing down.
“This is a bad corner. Many accidents. You’re coming one block off the boulevard,” the woman said. She added, “What’s the hurry? You’re going to reach your destination. It’s not worth somebody’s life. That was somebody’s life. Someone’s daughter. Someone’s sister,” highlighting the personal loss experienced by the community following Serrano’s death.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to assist in the ongoing investigation. The Philadelphia Police Department’s Crash Investigation Division can be reached at 215-685-3180. Residents may also submit tips anonymously by calling or texting the department’s tip line at 215-686-TIPS (8477).
The department has not released additional information regarding the driver of the vehicle or any potential suspects at this time. Officials continue to collect evidence, review witness statements, and examine surveillance footage in hopes of identifying those responsible.
Community members have expressed concern about the safety of the intersection and surrounding streets, emphasizing the need for drivers to exercise caution and respect pedestrian crossings. Local residents said that speeding and inattentive driving are ongoing problems, and the recent fatality has heightened awareness of the risks in the area.
The investigation into Serrano’s death is ongoing. Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has information related to the vehicle involved to come forward. The department stressed that public cooperation is essential to identifying those responsible and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
This incident has deeply impacted the local community, as neighbors and friends mourn the loss of a young woman described by those who knew her as a cherished family member. Authorities continue to provide updates as the investigation unfolds, and they are committed to ensuring a thorough review of all available evidence.
The Philadelphia Police Department also reminded the public to remain vigilant when walking near busy intersections and to report any suspicious activity or vehicles that may be connected to the incident.
This is a developing story, and further information will be released as it becomes available.
