THE Richards Bay police arrested 41-year-old driver, Francis Ilonah in connection with the death of Rodney Bentley (55).
She appeared in the Richards Bay Magistrate’s Court on Monday and the case was remanded to Monday next week.
Ilonah has been charged with culpable homicide.
According to two witnesses at the Birdswood scene, a VW Golf ploughed into Bentley at the corner of Nkoninga and Wagtail at 8.30pm on Saturday.
A female passenger allegedly climbed out of the vehicle to examine Bentley, who had died on impact.
She then returned to the car, which drove off.
Richards Bay SAPS spokesperson Captain Debbie Ferreira said witness statements are currently being collected.
‘By law motorists must always stop at an accident scene until the police arrive.
‘According to the Road Traffic Act, not stopping makes you guilty of an offence and you could be charged.’
Meanwhile members of the community are rallying to mourn the tragic death of Bentley.
His memorial service will be held on Tuesday, 21 April at 11am at the Outlook Church In Bulbul Bend.
‘We are heart-broken that our dear friend Rodney died in such a terrible accident,’ said Pastor Brent Brading.
‘We will miss him very much and his ever-helpful presence in the coffee shop and around our church.’
