Update: Arrest in Fatal Hit and Run Traffic Crash
December 1, 2023 – On Friday, June 2, 2023 at approximately 12:37 PM, Highland Park Police personnel responded to the intersection of Deerfield Road and Piccadilly Road for a report of a bicyclist struck by a vehicle. After an extensive investigation in collaboration with the Lake County Major Crash Assistance Team and the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office, Highland Park Police identified Melanie A. Hass, age 41, of Mundelein, Illinois, as the driver of the offending vehicle in this case. Hass was driving her 2020 Jeep Wrangler when it struck the victim. Hass then fled the area without rendering aid or reporting the collision to police.
After reviewing the evidence and facts of the investigation with the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office, Hass was charged with Leaving the Scene of a Fatal Accident, 625 ILCS 5/11-401b, a Class 1 Felony. Hass was transported to Waukegan for a first appearance hearing.
The City of Highland Park reminds drivers that they are required by law to stop and render aid to any person injured in a crash they are involved in.
Suspect Information*:
Melanie A. Hass (41)
26185 N. Acorn La, Mundelein, IL
* The subject listed above has been charged with a crime. The charge is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.