Family Holds Vigil for Hit-and-Run Victim in North Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA, PA — A grieving family is holding a vigil for Nafeece Acquil Jenkins, 32, who was killed in a hit-and-run accident early Sunday morning. The tragic event occurred around 1:45 a.m. near the intersection of 12th Street and Lehigh Avenue, according to Philadelphia police.

Jenkins was reportedly crossing Lehigh Avenue when he was struck by a white Honda that was speeding. The force of the collision threw Jenkins onto the vehicle before he landed in the roadway, where he was pronounced dead shortly after. Jenkins’ mother, Sharon Carter, expressed her heartbreak, saying, “I’m numb. That was my oldest son. I just really can’t believe it happened.”

The impact of the crash was captured on surveillance video, showing the white Honda speeding down the street before hitting Jenkins and fleeing the scene. Witnesses described the aftermath as a disaster, with one neighbor stating, “It was really bad.”

Police later located the abandoned Honda, which had significant damage and was discovered parked in a lot on the 1200 block of Park Avenue. Authorities are working to find the driver, but as of now, no suspects have been identified. An investigation is ongoing, and police are reviewing nearby surveillance footage.

Jenkins’ family and friends gathered for a vigil Monday evening at 58th and Arch streets to honor him. “He was a father, he’s an uncle, he’s a friend,” said Jenkins’ uncle, Derrick Cave, urging the driver to turn themselves in. “Whoever it was, just come forward. His child deserves this.”

Residents of the area have expressed concerns about reckless driving in the neighborhood, stating, “We’re not even safe out here no more.” Carter echoed this sentiment, calling for justice and asking the driver to take responsibility, saying, “Turn yourself in. Give hope. Give closure.” The family hopes that the community will help bring the driver to justice.