November 23, 2016

Police searching for driver in hit-and-run crash that killed girl, 8, in West Philly

By Jerry Gaul
PhillyVoice Staff

Contributed photo/Philadelphia Police Department

Philadelphia police are searching for the driver of the vehicle that struck and killed Jayanna Powell, 8, in West Philadelphia on Friday, Nov. 18, 2016.

Police asked the public for assistance Wednesday locating a vehicle that struck and killed an 8-year-old girl in West Philadelphia.

The crash occurred Friday around 3:15 p.m. near the intersection of 63rd Street and Lansdowne Avenue.

Authorities said Jayanna Powell, 8, was hit by a vehicle and knocked unconscious. The driver fled the area in the vehicle. Powell was rushed to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia where she was pronounced dead at 3:35 p.m.

The suspect's vehicle is described as a silver 2009-2016 Nissan Maxima or Altima. Police believe the car has damage to the front grill and one of the front headlights.

A GoFundMe campaign was launched Monday to raise $15,000 for Powell's family.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Accident Investigation Division at 215-685-3180/3181.