Photo: Ajax9 / iStock / Getty Images
A 69-year-old Pittsfield man was killed in a horrific hit-and-run incident that saw his body dragged for approximately four miles through city streets, as police continue searching for the driver responsible.
William S. Colbert was struck by a vehicle near the intersection of Francis Avenue and Linden Street around 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday (February 11), according to the Berkshire District Attorney's Office. Investigators believe Colbert became trapped beneath the vehicle after the initial impact.
The driver fled the scene without stopping, dragging Colbert's body through several Pittsfield neighborhoods before it was discovered near the Best Western Plus hotel in the 1350 block of West Housatonic Street – approximately four miles from where he was first struck.
Security footage obtained from a convenience store at the intersection shows a dark-colored sedan heading west on Linden Street at 11:36 p.m., shortly before the collision occurred off-camera. Witnesses can be heard shouting before a car horn sounds.
Karen Delisle, a longtime friend of Colbert, described him as a "fun, loving guy" who "made people laugh and loved to reminisce and tell stories with his friends."
Police believe the vehicle involved is a dark-colored sedan, possibly a Toyota or Honda model. Investigators have traced evidence suggesting the driver traveled along Linden Street, Robbins Avenue, Daniels Avenue, Columbus Avenue, Onota Street, South Merriam Street, and ultimately West Housatonic Street between approximately 11:33 p.m. and 11:49 p.m.
Emmanuel Bogro, who lives near the intersection where Colbert was struck, noted that sidewalks in the neighborhood are often difficult for pedestrians to navigate during winter months. "When it's cold, the whole street can get icy," he told The Berkshire Eagle.
Pittsfield Police are reviewing surveillance footage from homes and businesses along the route and urge anyone with information to come forward. Those with potential evidence can contact Officer Anthony Dayton at (413) 448-9700 ext. 543, or Sergeant David Hallas at ext. 560.