On Friday evening, February 8, at approximately 7:16 p.m., Somerville Police responded to a report of an apparent hit-and-run at the intersection of Powder House Boulevard and Hardan Road. The collision resulted in the death of one woman and non-life-threatening injuries to a second woman.

Our deepest sympathies go out to the friends and family of the victim, Allison Donovan, 40, of Somerville, as well as to the surviving victim. In this tight-knit and caring community, we hope it offers some comfort in knowing that we, as well as surely many others, are sharing in your grief.

Members of the public with information they believe will assist in identifying the operator of the motor vehicle are encouraged to contact the Somerville Police Department at 617-625-1600 ext. 7250 or 7254. Tips may be left anonymously through text. Begin your text message with 617spd and send it to TIP411 (847411).

The Somerville Police Department is working closely with Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan’s office on the investigation. The preliminary investigation suggests that the driver struck the pedestrians in a crosswalk before leaving the scene.

At this time, Somerville Police are trying to locate a newer model, full-size, black pickup truck with front-end driver’s-side damage. The vehicle is believed to have a black cover over the bed of the truck and is possibly a Ford F-150.

Members of the public with information they believe will assist in identifying the operator of the motor vehicle are encouraged to contact the Somerville Police Department at 617-625-1600 ext. 7250 or 7254. Those are business lines and they are manned 24/7 by sworn officers. Tips may be left anonymously through text. Begin your text message with 617spd and send it to TIP411 (847411).

On Monday and throughout the school week, you will find additional police presence at the intersection, which is opposite the West Somerville Neighborhood School. Crisis counselors will also be on site Monday morning at the school for students, teachers, and parents.

Once the DA and Police investigation, as well as the City’s review of the incident, have progressed appropriately, a community meeting will be held to share information, answer questions, and discuss next steps. And again, at this time, we are requesting public assistance in identifying the driver.

As our community grieves this sudden and tragic loss, we will be working diligently to investigate this incident and to support our students, families, and residents.

Sincerely,

Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and Chief David Fallon