Family Mourning After Fatal Hit-and-Run in Beloit
Beloit police are investigating a hit-and-run incident that left 37-year-old Leroy Helminiak dead early on August 9 at the intersection of White Avenue and Riverside Drive.
According to police reports, Helminiak was riding his motorcycle at high speeds when he ran a red light and collided with another vehicle. He was transported to the hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
His mother, Mary Davies, expressed her disbelief, stating, “You had to love him, to hate him, to love him all over again,” reflecting on their relationship. She received a text from her son shortly before the crash, where he shared pride in his daughter's progress in Driver's Ed.
The vehicle involved, a blue 1999 GMC Jimmy, fled the scene but was found abandoned later by authorities. The registered owner, a 58-year-old male, is facing a citation for failing to stop but has not been identified as the driver at the time of the accident.
Davies is seeking closure and urges the driver to come forward, saying, “If you have nothing to hide, come forward.” She added a message for motorcyclists, stressing the importance of safety gear and vigilance.
Beloit police are requesting anyone with information about the driver to contact dispatch at 608-757-2244 or submit a tip through the Greater Beloit Area Crime Stoppers.