Jermaine Martin Obituary, Death; Police ID victim in Gage Park hit-and-run caught on video

Jermaine Martin Obituary, Death – Early Saturday morning, a 22-year-old man lost his life in a hit-and-run incident in Chicago’s Gage Park neighborhood. Authorities have identified the victim as Jermaine Martin, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office.

The crash occurred just before 3:30 a.m. in the 5400 block of South Kedzie Avenue. Police reports indicate that Martin was walking in a designated crosswalk at the time of the collision. Witnesses and investigators say a gray vehicle approached the intersection, disregarded a red traffic signal, and continued into the crossing.

According to authorities, the driver appeared to swerve toward Martin as the young man attempted to move out of the vehicle’s path. Despite being in the crosswalk and having the right of way, Martin was struck by the vehicle, suffering severe injuries.

Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and transported Martin to a nearby hospital. Unfortunately, despite medical efforts, he was later pronounced dead. The specific nature of his injuries has not been detailed publicly, but officials confirmed they were consistent with the high-impact nature of the collision.

The driver of the gray vehicle did not stop after the crash, fleeing the scene before police could arrive. Officers are treating the case as a fatal hit-and-run, a serious offense under Illinois law that carries significant criminal penalties if the suspect is located and convicted.

Authorities have not released a description of the driver, and there is no confirmation yet on the exact make or model of the suspect’s car beyond its gray color. No arrests have been made, and police are appealing to the public for assistance. They are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has surveillance footage from the area to come forward with information.

Investigators are working to gather any available evidence, including video recordings from nearby businesses or homes, in hopes of identifying the vehicle and tracking down the driver. The incident has left residents concerned, as the location of the crash is a well-trafficked area, even during late-night and early-morning hours.

Friends and family of Jermaine Martin are mourning the sudden loss, remembering him as a young man whose life was tragically cut short. Community members are expressing frustration over reckless driving incidents and the dangers pedestrians face, even when following traffic rules.

As the investigation continues, the Chicago Police Department is emphasizing the importance of community assistance in solving the case. Tips can be submitted anonymously through official police channels. Authorities remain committed to bringing the driver to justice and providing closure to Martin’s loved ones.

This fatal incident serves as another reminder of the deadly consequences of disregarding traffic laws and failing to stop after a collision. Police say they will continue their efforts to track down the suspect and hold them accountable for the hit-and-run that claimed the life of 22-year-old Jermaine Martin.