A 72-year-old Arizona woman is dead months after a drunk, unlicensed driver struck her in a hit-and-run and simply drove away — leaving her bleeding in the street.
Sherry Hinojosa, 72, died earlier this month from injuries she suffered on April 19 in Phoenix, Arizona. She was crossing a street around 7:15 p.m., on her way to a nearby bus stop close to her senior living community, when her life was changed forever.
What Happened That Night
The driver — a 24-year-old man — admitted to police that he saw Hinojosa crossing the street but could not stop in time. After striking her, he made a choice that would shock many — he kept driving.
According to the police report, the driver told officers that “he knew that he hit a person in the roadway” — but he did not stop. His reason? He said he was “so scared.”
He left a 72-year-old woman laying in the street, alone, to die.
Drunk and Unlicensed Behind the Wheel
Investigators quickly uncovered more disturbing details. The driver did not have a valid driver’s license. On top of that, he admitted to drinking “three or four beers” before getting behind the wheel that evening.
When officers arrived, they noted they could smell alcohol on his breath. What stunned police even more was his demeanor — officers described him as being “abnormally calm” for someone who had just struck a pedestrian and fled the scene.
Stopped by Witnesses, Not Guilt
The driver did not turn himself in. He continued driving for several blocks after the crash — until witnesses at a nearby intersection physically stopped his vehicle. Had it not been for those bystanders stepping in, he may have gotten away entirely.
A Friend Demands Justice
Sherry Hinojosa survived for several months after the crash before ultimately succumbing to her injuries. She was simply walking to catch a bus — something millions of people do every day.
Her friend, who watched her suffer through those final months, is now speaking out and demanding that justice be served for a woman who deserved far better.
This case remains a painful reminder of the deadly consequences of drunk driving — and the cruelty of leaving a victim behind.
If you or someone you know has information related to this case, contact the Phoenix Police Department.
