WARNING: This story contains graphic content and details that may be upsetting to some readers.
Police have found the car involved in a deadly hit-and-run in New Haven on Monday night. They are still searching for the driver.
Officers were dispatched to a reported crash between a motorcycle and a car at the intersection of Whalley Avenue and Central Avenue shortly after 10:30 p.m. The crash closed Whalley Avenue between Central Avenue and Jewell Street for hours, but it has since reopened.
When the motorcycle and car collided, officer said the motorcycle operator was thrown into the air and landed on top of the car's hood.
According to police, witnesses said his head went through the car's windshield.
After the collision, police said the car took off quickly and headed eastbound on Whalley Avenue. When the car reached Fitch Street, the driver turned north. Officers said the turn caused the victim to dislodge from the windshield and crash to the ground. The car continued up Fitch Street.
Investigators found the car's grille at the point of impact. Part numbers reveal the grille belonged to a 2002 Mercury Sable. Witnesses said the vehicle was a dull-finished, light grey color, which may have been primer.
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The vehicle's registration is unknown, but police said the car has front-end damage and a substantial hole in the windshield.
Officers do not have a description of the driver or any passengers, if there were any.
On Tuesday morning, officers found the car involved in the hit-and-run on Beaver Hill Road. Officers were seen blocking the scene. The car was taken to the police department's garage where it will undergo a forensic work-up, police said. The driver has not been found.
Police identified the motorcycle driver as 51-year-old Mark Hoffler, of New Haven. Officers said he was prounounced dead after arriving at the hospital.
If you witnessed the crash or if you have information about the vehicle or its operator, you're urged to call New Haven Police at (203) 946-6316. Calls may be made anonymously.
