CHICAGO, IL — The tragic death of 22-year-old Jermaine Martin has rocked the Gage Park neighborhood after he was fatally struck by a hit-and-run driver early Saturday morning. Authorities are actively seeking public assistance as they released images of the suspect vehicle involved in this deadly crash.

The incident occurred just before 3:30 a.m. on August 9, 2025, at the intersection of South Kedzie Avenue and West 54th Street. According to Chicago Police Department reports, Martin was legally crossing the street within a marked crosswalk when a gray SUV ran a red light and struck him with apparent intent. Video footage obtained by NBC Chicago reveals Martin attempting to evade the vehicle, but the driver swerved toward him, making contact despite his efforts to step away.

The vehicle, identified as a silver 2014-2024 Toyota 4Runner Limited, fled the scene immediately after the collision, heading northbound on Kedzie Avenue. Police believe the vehicle sustained damage to the front right side, consistent with striking a pedestrian. The vehicle was last seen near the intersection of Archer and Sacramento avenues.

Emergency responders rushed Martin to a nearby hospital, but despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries. The sudden and violent nature of this tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community, with residents expressing outrage and sorrow over the loss of such a young life.

The Chicago Police Department has launched a thorough investigation into the case, emphasizing the hit-and-run as a serious criminal offense. They are urging anyone with information about the vehicle or its driver to come forward. Officers believe the suspect deliberately endangered Martin’s life by running the red light and swerving toward him, a detail that has deepened community grief and demands for justice.

Jermaine Martin’s family and friends remember him as a promising young man whose life was tragically cut short in a senseless act. As the community mourns, they also seek answers and accountability for this violent crime.

Chicago Police are currently reviewing surveillance footage from nearby cameras to track the vehicle’s movements and are canvassing local neighborhoods for witnesses. They remind residents to remain vigilant and report any tips to the police department or Crime Stoppers anonymously.

This fatal incident highlights ongoing concerns over pedestrian safety and reckless driving in urban areas. Authorities urge drivers to obey traffic signals and drive cautiously, especially near busy intersections and residential neighborhoods.

The release of the suspect vehicle’s photos marks a crucial step in the investigation. The community hopes it will lead to a swift apprehension of the driver responsible for Jermaine Martin’s death.

Summary:

• Victim: Jermaine Martin, 22 years old

• Incident: Hit-and-run at South Kedzie Ave & West 54th St, Chicago

• Vehicle: Silver 2014-2024 Toyota 4Runner Limited, front right damage suspected

• Circumstances: Driver ran red light, swerved toward Martin in crosswalk, then fled

• Outcome: Martin died at hospital from injuries

• Police: Active investigation underway, seeking public help with tips