Fatal hit-and-run on 18th and Halsted Intersection

An unfortunate tragedy occurred on October 13th, 2009, when a Pilsen resident, Martha Gonzalez, a 36 year old mother of two, was fatally struck in a hit-and-run on the intersection of 18th and Halsted.

The driver broke the law by running a red light. Compounding the tragedy, the driver ran away. In response to this tragedy and the community’s involvement, Alderman Solis’ Office and various city departments proposed and completed the following:

Short Term:
Refresh International Crosswalks -- Completed
Install new signage -- Completed
Traffic Count Analysis for additional signals -- Completed
Review of study -- In Progress
Leading Pedestrian Signal Interval (LPI) -- Completed

MID-TERM
Left turn arrows/Right turn arrows -- Funding from City allocated
Proposed Red-Light Camera -- Study being reviewed
Pedestrian Count-down Signals -- Funding from Alderman Solis’ budget allocated

LONG-TERM
Widening Sidewalk on the east side of Halsted - CDOT to Develop Cost Estimates for possible installation after engineering feasibility study – Mid 2010

In addition, the family and friends of Martha created the Martha Gonzalez Memorial Committee (MGMC) in her memory and honor. A fund has been set up for donations- If you wish to do so, checks addressed to Martha Gonzalez may be given to any MB Financial Bank. A $5000 reward for any information directly leading the the conviction of the driver.