Godofredo Gonzales Zelaya Obituary, Death: Montgomery County police ask public to help locate family of hit-and-run victim.

Godofredo Gonzales Zelaya Obituary, Death – Montgomery County police are seeking assistance from the public to help locate the family of a man who was killed in a hit-and-run crash early Wednesday morning. The fatal incident took place shortly before 1 a.m. near the intersection of Frederick Road and Indianola Drive in Derwood, Maryland. According to law enforcement officials, a 2018 Honda Accord was traveling north on Frederick Road when it struck a pedestrian, resulting in the man’s death. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene following the collision.

Shortly after the crash, police were able to locate the suspected driver and took them into custody. Authorities reported that the individual was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI). At the time of the report, the driver’s identity had not yet been made public.

The pedestrian victim was later identified as 46-year-old Godofredo Gonzales Zelaya. Despite confirming his identity, investigators have so far been unable to locate or contact any family members or next of kin. As a result, the Montgomery County Police Department issued a public plea for help in identifying or reaching Gonzales Zelaya’s relatives.

Officials are urging anyone who may have information about Gonzales Zelaya’s family, or who may have known him personally, to come forward. The department is asking individuals to contact detectives with the Collision Reconstruction Unit directly at 240-773-6620.

The investigation into the crash remains active as authorities work to determine the full circumstances that led to the fatal incident. Police have not yet shared details about how fast the vehicle was traveling at the time of the crash or whether the pedestrian was in or near a crosswalk.

Frederick Road, where the collision occurred, is a major thoroughfare through Derwood and has been the site of previous traffic accidents. The early morning timing of the crash may have contributed to lower visibility, but investigators have not confirmed whether lighting or weather played a role.

Meanwhile, the community has responded with sadness and concern, as the incident raises issues of pedestrian safety and responsible driving. Local residents have expressed frustration about traffic-related deaths and are calling for heightened awareness, particularly when it comes to DUI-related crashes.

Law enforcement officials continue to stress the importance of staying at the scene of a crash, especially when injuries or fatalities are involved. Fleeing the scene not only hinders emergency response efforts but also results in more serious legal consequences.

As police continue to gather evidence and pursue leads, the immediate priority is identifying and notifying Gonzales Zelaya’s family. The department has assured the public that all information will be treated with sensitivity and confidentiality.

Anyone with information is encouraged to reach out as soon as possible to help bring closure to this tragic case.