Woman Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run Released by Judge
A woman has been charged with a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a 66-year-old pedestrian in West Town earlier this year. Despite prosecutors’ efforts to have her jailed pending trial, the judge ultimately decided to release her on bail.
39-year-old Iryna Kalach was identified as the driver of a 2022 Mitsubishi SUV that struck Halyan Hudzan in the 700 block of North Oakley on January 24, according to prosecutors.
During the court hearing, prosecutors informed Judge Mary Marubio that Hudzan was crossing the street within the crosswalk and had the right-of-way when Kalach’s vehicle hit her, causing her to fall to the ground at approximately 8:48 a.m.
Reports from the Chicago Police Department stated that Kalach briefly stopped after the collision before accelerating over Hudzan’s body while making a right turn onto Chicago Avenue and fleeing the scene. Kalach allegedly failed to call emergency services, offer any assistance, or report the incident to authorities.
The CPD’s Major Accident Investigation Unit released surveillance images of the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run, urging the public to come forward with any information.
Although Judge Mary Marubio initially considered detaining Kalach, citing photographic evidence showing her in the driver’s seat and her alleged disregard for traffic signals and the victim’s well-being post-accident, she ultimately opted to release Kalach on bail with strict instructions to attend all future court appearances.
Kalach is facing charges of felony leaving the scene of a fatal crash and misdemeanor failure to render aid in connection with the incident.
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