Morton Grove Authorities Charge Niles Man Following Deadly Hit-and-Run Crash That Claimed Jonathan Friedman
Morton Grove Authorities Charge Niles Man Following Deadly Hit-and-Run Crash That Claimed Jonathan Friedman
MORTON GROVE, Ill. — The Morton Grove Police Department (MGPD) has announced formal charges against 39-year-old William D. Barkho of Niles in connection with a tragic hit-and-run accident earlier this summer that resulted in the passing of 74-year-old Jonathan Friedman. The heartbreaking incident has left the local community grieving while sparking renewed calls for accountability on the roads.
According to MGPD, investigators worked diligently in the weeks following the accident to piece together evidence that ultimately linked Barkho to the crash. Authorities allege that after striking Friedman, Barkho fled the scene instead of remaining to render aid or report the collision, a decision that compounded the gravity of the situation.
Police officials noted that Friedman was struck while crossing near an intersection in Morton Grove, a suburban village northwest of Chicago. The accident occurred during evening hours when traffic was still active, but authorities believe the driver had ample opportunity to stop. Instead, the vehicle continued on, leaving Friedman critically injured.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene after receiving multiple 911 calls from concerned witnesses. Friedman was transported to a nearby hospital, but despite lifesaving efforts, he later succumbed to his injuries. His passing sent shockwaves through Morton Grove, where he was remembered as a kind and respected member of the community.
Detectives utilized a combination of surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence to track down the suspect vehicle and ultimately identify Barkho. Following weeks of investigation, prosecutors moved forward with charges, and MGPD publicly confirmed the arrest in a press release this week.
Barkho now faces multiple charges, including leaving the scene of a fatal accident and reckless driving. Authorities emphasized that such offenses carry serious consequences under Illinois law, and the case will move forward through the Cook County court system in the coming months.
Community members have expressed both relief and sorrow following the announcement of charges. While many are grateful that law enforcement persisted in their pursuit of justice, others remain deeply heartbroken over the preventable nature of the tragedy. Some neighbors have called for increased pedestrian safety measures and stricter enforcement of reckless driving violations.
Morton Grove officials joined the chorus of condolences, offering words of support to Friedman’s family. Local leaders stressed the importance of honoring his memory by working toward safer roadways and encouraging drivers to take greater responsibility behind the wheel.
Authorities also reminded the public that leaving the scene of an accident is a crime that can devastate families and erode trust in the community. By pursuing accountability in this case, police hope to send a clear message that reckless behavior will not go unpunished.
As the legal process unfolds, Friedman’s family and friends continue to mourn the loss of a beloved father, neighbor, and friend. For many, the charges bring a measure of closure, but the pain of his absence remains deeply felt across Morton Grove and beyond.
