July 5, 2011

Former Memphis Resident Killed in Hit-and-Run Accident in St. Louis

A former Memphis resident died late Monday night in St. Louis after being involved in a hit-and-run accident.

John Foster Courtney, age 29, passed away with family members at his side at the St. Louis University Hospital less than 24 hours after being struck by a vehicle.

According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, Courtney was crossing the street at the 4100 block of Manchester Avenue in St. Louis, when he was struck by a Hyundai Santa Fe. According to witnesses, the vehicle left the scene heading westbound on Manchester Avenue. The accident occurred at 12:30 a.m. on Monday morning, July 4th.

Courtney was transported by ambulance to St. Louis University Hospital where officials indicated he passed away at approximately 11:30 p.m. on July 4th.

Law enforcement officers took a suspect in the hit-and-run into custody on the afternoon of July 4th.

Justin Kramarczyk, 24, of St. Louis, has been charged with the Class D felony of leaving the scene of an accident. A judge set bond at $50,000 cash-only. The investigation is continuing and upon its conclusion, investigators will again present the case to prosecutors. It is possible additional charges may be filed at that time.