KENNEWICK, Wash. – A suspect has been arrested in connection with the deadly hit-and-run that killed Angelica Morfin-Barajas, 31, on November 1, the Kennewick Police Department (KPD) reported.
Barajas was struck around 12:15 a.m. while walking on Canal Drive near Lyle Street, after which the driver fled the scene in their vehicle.
KPD officials reported that the suspect was identified thanks to community cooperation, traffic cameras and Flock automated license plate reading cameras.
On Thursday afternoon, KPD detectives found the suspect vehicle in the 700 block of East 15th Avenue. Through the collaborative efforts of detectives, the KPD traffic unit, the Criminal Apprehension Team and SWAT personnel, a search warrant was executed at the location and the 33-year-old female suspect driver was safely taken into custody. Authorities also recovered the suspect vehicle allegedly used during the incident for evidence processing.
The suspect was booked into the Benton County Jail on a felony charge of hit and run resulting in a death.
“While this arrest will not bring Angelica back, we are thankful to be equipped with tools and technology that assisted us in bringing closure for her family and friends,” KPD officials said.
The investigation remains ongoing and authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact KPD dispatch at 509-628-0333. Information can also be submitted anonymously online.
