Western Massachusetts Man Arrested in Fatal Hit and Run

Police in Pittsfield, Massachusetts have made an arrest in a horrific hit-and-run that left a 69-year-old man dead.

On Tuesday, February 10, around 11:30 p.m. investigators responded to the intersection of Linden St and Francis Ave for a report of a possible pedestrian in the road who witnesses believe was struck by a vehicle. However, when investigators arrived they were unable to locate a victim or vehicle.

After speaking with witnesses and canvasing the area, investigators eventually located the victim, who was deceased in the 1350 block of West Housatonic St, some three and a half miles away.

Two days later the Berkshire District Attorney's Office identified the victim as William S. Colbert a 69-year-old resident of Pittsfield. 

Yesterday evening, Pittsfield Police announced the arrest of a Hancock, Massachusetts man after what they call an extensive investigation. Williams Gross, 65, was arrested without incident.

According to a press release from Pittsfield Police, Gross will be arraigned in Central Berkshire District Court for the charges of Motor Vehicle Homicide as well as Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Accident resulting in Personal Injury or Death. Further

Early investigation indicates that the Colbert was first struck, but then became trapped underneath the vehicle and dragged across the city.

Gross allegedly fled from the scene and investigators believe the vehicle traveled on Linden St, Robins Ave, Daniels Ave, Columbus Ave, Onota St, South Merriam St, and ultimately West Housatonic.

The department says further information will be released on a later date.