Chicago teacher killed in SW Side hit-and-run crash on Pulaski Road

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A 56-year-old man was killed in a hit-and-run crash on the Southwest Side Sunday night, Chicago police said.

The victim was crossing the street in the 6300-block of South Pulaski Road at about 11:45 p.m. when witnesses told police a red Toyota Camry was traveling northbound at a high rate of speed.

Police said the vehicle struck the victim and did not stop. The victim sustained head and body injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. He has been identified as Charles Mills.

Chicago Public Schools confirmed he is a teacher at Jones College Prep. The school emailed parents and students, saying in part, "It is with deep sadness that we inform you about a recent loss to our school community. On March 31, 2024, Charles "Charlie" Mills passed away. Charlie was a beloved member of our Diverse Learner team who also offered his expertise to our many performing arts productions. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time."

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Elizabeth Romero, who works at a daycare on the corner of 64th and Pulaski, said the four-lane thoroughfare there has been dangerous for years. She said a car nearly ran into her job last year, and a nearby metal fence is badly dented where cars have crashed into it.

"There's always accidents. We see a lot of races happening," she said. "It's very dangerous for pedestrians to even cross the street."

Lee Nendza says reckless drivers rattle the windows and set off the alarms at his business, Andy's Bowling Pro Shop.

"No one obeys the speed limit anymore. They're drag racing, in a hurry. Passing where parked cars are," he said.

Sunday night's fatal crash happened just days after residents held a meeting about their ongoing safety concerns. They said there have been multiple severe and deadly crashes on the stretch of Pulaski from the Stevenson to 71st Street in recent months.

They've called for short and long-term solutions to combat dangerous driving. City officials who met with the concerned citizens said there will be more meetings to come regarding safety on Pulaski.

In the meantime, the Chicago Police Major Accidents Investigation Unit is investigating the crash and are asking for anyone with information on the incident to contact them.