LANSING, MI – A heartbreaking hit-and-run crash on Lansing’s west side has tragically claimed the life of a young man, leaving his family and the community in deep sorrow. Authorities have identified the victim as 28-year-old JaQius Nakei Cox of Lansing, as the urgent search for the driver who fled the scene continues. The incident occurred late on Saturday night, June 7.
According to the Eaton County Sheriff’s Office, the fatal collision took place at approximately 10:40 p.m. near the intersection of Waverly Road and Tecumseh River Drive. When deputies arrived at the scene, they made the somber discovery of Mr. Cox lying in the southbound lanes of Waverly Road. It was immediately clear to investigators that he had been struck by a vehicle, and what makes this even more tragic is that the driver responsible did not stop to offer help or report the incident.
Law enforcement officials believe the driver sped away right after hitting the pedestrian, abandoning Mr. Cox on the road. In response to this grave act, the sheriff’s office has quickly asked the public for their help. They are urging any witnesses or individuals with information that could be important to the ongoing investigation to step forward and assist them in finding the person responsible for this senseless act.
Three days after the crash, on June 10, the Eaton County Sheriff’s Office publicly shared Mr. Cox’s name and age. This information was released after a request from the Lansing State Journal, a common practice to help generate community involvement and new leads. However, at the time of the release, the department did not provide any further details or updates on the investigation, meaning crucial information about the suspect or vehicle remains limited.
Authorities are continuing to strongly seek the public’s help in identifying the vehicle or the person responsible for the crash. They are appealing to anyone who may have seen the collision, or has any information that could lead to identifying the driver, to contact a detective at 517-213-6121. Every tip, no matter how small it might seem, could be vital in bringing closure and justice to Mr. Cox’s grieving family.
This tragic death has rightly raised serious concerns within the community about pedestrian safety, especially during nighttime hours when it’s harder to see. It also shines a harsh light on the grave responsibilities that all drivers have when they are involved in an accident. Hit-and-run crashes are particularly painful because they leave victims and their families without answers, often making the process of healing and seeking justice even more complicated. Michigan law is clear: drivers must remain at the scene of a crash and offer aid. Failing to do so can lead to severe legal consequences, in addition to the immense moral and emotional burden of leaving someone in desperate need of help.
