A person found dead near a North Branford roadside early on October 16 is believed to have been the victim of a hit and run accident, according to police. Police are asking for the public's assistance with information and any assistance which could lead to locating the evading vehicle, which should have front right damage to the bumper, hood and windshield.  

In a press release issued Oct. 16 regarding the incident, North Branford Police Department (NBPD) stated "preliminary investigation shows the individual was struck by a vehicle that evaded from the scene." Police were withholding identification of the deceased pending notification of the family. In the press release, NBPD also expressed that the department's "heartfelt sorrow and sympathy go out to this individual's family and friends."

The deceased was located early on Saturday, Oct. 16 after units from NBPD and North Branford Fire Department responded to a 911 call for an unknown medical incident in front of 27 Branford Road/Route 139. Members of the South Central Regional Traffic Unit and North Branford Detective Bureau processed the scene and are continuing the investigation. 

Anyone with information which can assist with the investigation is asked to contact North Branford police at (203) 484-2703 or the NBPD Anonymous Tip Line at (203) 484-2201.

The area of Branford Road/Route 139 was closed between Valley Road and Hubbard Road for an extended period during the preliminary police investigation. Police notified the public via its Facebook page that the area was closed as of approximately 7 a.m. and later notified the area had been reopened as of approximately 10 a.m. 

The fatality is the second motor vehicle accident-related death on Branford Road/Route 139 within 12 days. On Oct. 5, an East Haven resident died at the hospital after she was extricated from a two-vehicle crash on Branford Road/Route 139 near Valley Road (see related story).