Fatal hit and run suspect not charged
SAN LUIS, Ariz. (KYMA) - The suspect in a fatal hit and run in Yuma County was not officially charged in court.
During his court appearance Tuesday, the suspect, a 27-year-old man from Somerton, was informed that the prosecutor has not yet filed charges.
He is accused of driving off after hitting and killing 21-year-old Mariella Acosta of Yuma on S. Avenue B and W. County 14th Street early Saturday morning.
Judge Scarlett Harper explained that the prosecution needs to investigate further before they can officially charge the suspect.
"You were arrested for felony offense, so what that means is they have up to seven years to file charges against you. If they decide that, you are the person they are going to charge in this," Judge Harper said.
This means the suspect could still be charged for this, but it will not happen at this point in time.
The victim's family and friends were visibly upset, crying, and questioning the process.
They asked how the suspect was not charged, and what the next steps are.
The judge had a message for them.
“It may be difficult to understand for the victims here present this morning, but in situations like these, you know the county attorneys have informed the court that they need to follow up furthermore on this case,” says Judge Harper.
The suspect is expected to be released sometime Tuesday.
