A 48-year-old woman, identified as Meaza Brown, was fatally struck in a hit-and-run early Thursday on Drexel University’s campus in Philadelphia, police confirmed. The tragic crash occurred around 4:30 a.m. at the intersection of 33rd and Market streets, a busy crossing point for students and workers starting their day.
According to investigators, Brown was walking to work with three coworkers when a silver Chrysler 300 with dark tinted windows blew through a red light and struck her in the crosswalk. The force of impact was devastating — she was reportedly “launched out of her sneakers,” Chief Inspector Scott Small said. The car didn’t slow down or stop — it sped off eastbound on Market Street, heading toward 30th Street Station.
Emergency crews rushed Brown to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center with severe trauma. She suffered internal bleeding and multiple injuries, but despite the efforts of medical staff, she was pronounced dead just after 4:45 a.m. Her coworkers, who witnessed the crash, are now left reeling, describing the moment and calling the loss senseless.
Philadelphia police immediately launched an all-hands investigation. Thanks to witness statements and surveillance, they gathered a description of the vehicle — including its license plate number. Officers were dispatched to the address registered to the Chrysler’s owner. But so far, neither the driver nor the car has been located.
In the aftermath, the University City community is on edge. That stretch of Market Street is always bustling, even in the pre-dawn hours — and now the dangers feel painfully real. Police and community members alike have stressed that speeding and reckless driving make pedestrian crossings especially perilous.
Authorities are urging anyone with information — no matter how small — to call 215-686-8477. Tips can remain anonymous, and investigators say they’re working urgently to bring closure and accountability.
As Philadelphia mourns, Brown’s death has become a stark reminder of how fragile public safety can be. She was simply walking to work, doing what so many of us do every day — and now her family, friends, and coworkers are grappling with a loss that feels both deeply personal and painfully public.
