Man lying in the middle of the road is killed by hit-and-run driver

A 26-year-old man was killed in a hit-and-run in Salt Lake City early Wednesday morning.

According to Salt Lake City police, the victim — whose name has not been released — was having a “mental episode” about 4:45 a.m. and was lying in the middle of the road near 1300 South and 860 East. Although family members urged the victim to get out of the street, he remained there as a passing car ran over him and then left the scene without stopping.

The victim died at the scene.

It’s possible the driver did not realize the car had run over someone, according to police, because it was dark.

Police are looking for a silver or gray Ford Mustang, 2018 to 2021 model, with damage to the lower front bumper. Some pieces of such a bumper were found at the scene, police said.

Police are asking anyone who lives or works around that part of 1300 South to check their home or business security systems. Investigators would like to review video that may show the crash, or show a Mustang in the area before or after the crash.

Anyone with information is asked to call 801-799-3000, and refer to case number 21-153171.