2 killed, 1 in critical after 2 hit-and-runs Friday night in Detroit

Police say hit-and-runs Friday night likely not connected

DETROIT – Two people are dead after Detroit police say they were struck by a driver Friday night.

Police said the man and woman were crossing Meyers at the corner of McNichols Road about10 p.m. Witnesses say a light colored Pontiac Grand AM was traveling northbound on Meyers when the driver struck both pedestrians. The driver fled.

Wayne Sanders, 56, and an unidentified white woman in her 50s both died from their injuries.

Police are looking for the driver of the Grand AM.

Another hit-and-run leaves pedestrian in critical condition

Just a few hours earlier on Friday night, there was another hit-and-run at 7 Mile Road and Fielding in Detroit. A pedestrian was in the middle of the road when he was struck. The driver of the vehicle would not have been at fault but did not stop, police say.

The vehicle is described as silver in color. Police are looking for the driver.

According to the Detroit police, 10 of the 19 traffic-related deaths in the city this year have involved pedestrians who were either crossing the street or walking in the road.

Witnesses report seeing silver or white car in both instances

In both of these hit-and-runs, witnesses say they saw a silver or white vehicle similar to a Pontiac Grand AM, Grand Prix or a Ford Taurus. Police say it's not likely these crimes are connected, but they aren't ruling it out.

"In this instance both drivers decided to keep going, and that's a crime," said Detroit Police Chief James Craig. "We're talking about an hour and 1/2 time difference. We're talking about a 4 mile difference in location. Could it be? Possibly, but we're just not certain at this point."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Detroit Police Department.

"You have to be mindful that if you're out walking after dark, wearing dark clothing, you're at risk," said Craig.