A 41-year-old Tinley Park man has been charged in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash that killed a Romeoville man early May 31, police said.
Robert Barajar was arrested June 5 and charged with reckless homicide, leaving the scene of an accident involving death, and multiple traffic violations, according to the Orland Park Police Department.
The crash happened around 3:13 a.m. near 159th Street and Harlem Avenue. Barajar was driving south on Harlem when he struck a vehicle driven by a 23-year-old man traveling west on 159th, police said.
The Romeoville man was taken to Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox, where he died from his injuries.
Barajar fled on foot without calling for help, police said. Surveillance footage and physical evidence led investigators to identify him as the driver.
He faces the following charges:
- Leaving the scene of an accident involving death or injury (Class 1 felony)
- Reckless homicide (Class 3 felony)
- Disobeying a traffic signal (2 counts)
- Speeding more than 26 mph over the posted limit
“This arrest is the result of tireless work by everyone involved in the investigation,” Police Chief Eric Rossi said in a statement. “We extend our condolences to the victim’s family and remain committed to pursuing justice.”
Barajar was ordered to be detained at Cook County Jail.
His next scheduled court appearance will be June 26 at the 5th District Cook County Courthouse in Bridgeview.