Big Horn County, MT – Montana Highway Patrol is asking for the public’s help after a fatal hit-and-run crash early Sunday morning left a pedestrian dead along U.S. Highway 87 near Hardin.
According to the Montana Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at mile marker 44 eastbound on US 87, just outside the city of Hardin in Big Horn County. Authorities say the incident happened Sunday, January 18, and was reported to 911 just before 3:00 a.m.
Investigators say evidence at the scene indicates the pedestrian was struck by a vehicle that fled the area. Based on debris and damage patterns, troopers believe the suspect vehicle is a 2019 to 2021 Volkswagen Jetta. The vehicle is expected to have significant front-end damage, though officials note the color of the car is currently unknown.
Montana Highway Patrol emphasized that the image being circulated of a Volkswagen Jetta is for reference only and not the actual vehicle involved in the crash.
The identity of the victim has not been released, pending notification of next of kin. No additional details about the pedestrian were immediately available.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have been traveling on US 87 near Hardin early Sunday morning, or who may have seen a damaged Volkswagen Jetta matching the description, to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact:
- Trooper Matthew Hudgins – Matthew.Hudgins@mt.gov
- Trooper Aaron Freivalds – AFreivalds@mt.gov
- Trooper Wyatt Duncan – Wyatt.Duncan@mt.gov
Even small details could be critical in helping investigators identify the vehicle and driver involved.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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