What to Know
- A 21-year-old is dead after a hit-and-run in Hoboken.
- Police are searching for a large black SUV, such as a Yukon, Tahoe or Escalade.
- Authorities are reviewing surveillance video obtained from a nearby funeral home.
A 21-year-old cousin of the NBA's top draft pick was killed early Saturday by what police say was a hit-and-run driver.
Zackhary Simmons, of Ramsey, New Jersey, was struck at about 3:30 a.m. at Willow Avenue and 6th Street in Hoboken, police said.
His cousin, Ben Simmons, who was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday night as the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft, expressed his sadness on social media. [[384434741,C]]
"Hearing the news this morning is a reminder to never forget the important things in life," he wrote in a Twitter post.
He also posted a photo of himself wearing a Sixers cap with his cousin. [[384418961, C]]
Zackhary Simmons was taken to Jersey City Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at 4:25 a.m., police said.
U.S. & World
Authorities are searching for the driver of a large SUV who hit Simmons before fleeing the scene.
The vehicle, possibly a Yukon, Tahoe or Escalade, is also believed to have a New York registration.
Authorities are reviewing surveillance video obtained from a nearby funeral home.
Residents in the area said they aren’t surprised to hear about the hit-and-run. Jesse Bradshaw, of Hoboken, said the streets are often cramped and motorists are driving irresponsibly.
"They need to follow the rules," Bradshaw said. "People need to slow down."
