Overview
- Colaj was struck just after midnight on Jan. 1 while crossing Acushnet Avenue after leaving a church gathering at 1805 Acushnet Ave.
- She was transported to a nearby hospital and pronounced dead after being thrown a distance by the impact, according to the district attorney.
- The SUV drove off after the collision, and authorities have not released a description of the vehicle or the driver.
- Massachusetts State Police, New Bedford police, and the Bristol County District Attorney’s office are conducting a joint investigation.
- Community advocates identified Colaj as a Guatemalan mother of three who worked in the local seafood industry, and they are appealing for witnesses and support for funeral costs.