Pittsford, N.Y.— Monroe County Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn says there is no evidence that alcohol, drugs or speed played a role in a fatal hit and run accident Monday night in Pittsford.
The driver, who is from Irondequoit, hasn't been identified. Charges are pending against him. According to police, the driver said he didn't stop because he thought he hit a garbage can.
The body of 26-year-old Vaughn Steele was found on the north side of East Avenue near Kilbourn Road.
Family members told 13WHAM News Steele often walked places because he didn't have a car.
Steele's mother, Juanita Hall-Caswell remains distraught: "I'm taking it one minute at a time," said Hall-Caswell. "Because a part of me has died too."
“All we can do as a family is not let the blood shed yesterday be in vain,” said Hall-Caswell.
The Monroe County Sheriff's Office is still investigating the incident. They are reconstructing the scene using evidence found both on the road and on the driver's car.
Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn said the driver's story is credible. He told police he thought he struck a garbage can and drove off. It wasn't until three hours later, at his home in Irondequoit, that he told police he heard about the incident.
Sheriff O'Flynn said, "When he started to hear information on the news reports, he called 911 and said it could be me."
Steele was a graduate of Pittsford Sutherland High School, according to his family.
Neighbors on East Avenue said they are surprised there haven't been more fatal accidents there.
David Fitzpatrick said the traffic volume is heavy because there are two colleges, golf courses and many businesses in the area, plus residential traffic.
Fitzpatrick said the area should have sidewalks and without them it is "a dangerous road."
"I don't think anyone on East Avenue would argue the point, sidewalks are necessary." Fitzpatrick told us.
He and other neighbors said people like to walk and ride their bikes in that area, but right now it just isn't safe.
Some neighbors said they have complained to the town of Pittsford.
Our calls to Supervisor Sandra Zutes, were not returned.
