By: Richard L. Smith
The Essex County Prosecutor's Office and local authorities are searching for the driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run incident that took the life of a Newark resident and Ecuadorian native.
The incident occurred in the Ironbound section of Newark, at the intersection of Wilson Avenue and Lafayette Street, around 3 a.m. on Friday, May 31.
Chief Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Fennelly reported that emergency responders were dispatched to the nearby intersection of Wilson Avenue and Hensler Street shortly before 3 a.m. following reports of a person injured on the roadway.
Upon their arrival, Newark Police found Mr. Mario M. Calvache, 34, with severe injuries. Despite immediate aid, Mr. Calvache was pronounced dead at the scene.
A longtime resident of the Ironbound area, RLS Media learned that Mr. Calvache is an Ecuadorian native who graduated from Science High School in 2008 and then Lehigh University.
The circumstances that led Mr. Calvache to be on the street at that time are still unclear, including whether he was heading to work.
As the investigation continues, the authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident or the fleeing vehicle to come forward.
Funeral arrangements for Mr. Calvache are expected to be announced this week.
