A 76-year-old woman who was struck in a hit-and-run crash outside a Kroger on South Church Street has died from her injuries, authorities confirmed Wednesday.
The victim, whose name has not yet been released, was hit on Sunday, August 24 in the store’s parking lot and had been hospitalized in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries on September 3. The medical examiner has been asked to perform an autopsy to determine the official cause of death.
Following the incident, Heather Keller, 44, of Murfreesboro, was arrested and initially charged with a series of offenses, including:
Reckless aggravated assault
Felony reckless endangerment – vehicle
Leaving the scene of an accident involving injuries
Failure to give immediate notice of accident
Failure to render aid
Driving on a revoked license
Authorities say the Rutherford County District Attorney’s General Office has been notified of the victim’s death, and upgraded charges could be pending as the case proceeds.
Police reports indicate that Keller fled the scene immediately after striking the victim, prompting a widespread search before she was later taken into custody. The crash has sparked outrage and sorrow in the Murfreesboro community, particularly given the vulnerable age of the victim.
Officials are expected to release further details, including the victim’s identity and potential new charges, in the coming days.