Police identify driver in fatal hit and run on Highway 1 near Portage

Update:

The investigation into a fatal hit and run in the RM of Portage la Prairie now has a little more clarity.

A 59-year-old Long Plain First Nation man was found dead last week in the median on Highway 1 near Road 20 West, as authorities asked for information regarding the fatal finding.

Since then, the driver involved in the collision has been identified by police. 

The RCMP did not reveal any other details about their findings in this case other than the fact that the investigation continues.

Original story:

Monday, February 19, Portage la Prairie RCMP received a report of someone laying in the median ditch of the Trans-Canada Highway in the RM of Portage, near Road 20 West. Officers arrived on scene, and it was confirmed that the man was deceased.

Debris from a vehicle was strewn across the highway, indicating that he was a victim of a hit and run. An autopsy will be completed to confirm cause of death.

Officers recovered debris that indicates the suspect vehicle is a gloss black Toyota. The vehicle will have significant damage to the driver side mirror and front fender. This damage also indicates that the 59-year-old man from Long Plain First Nation was walking on the westbound roadway.  

RCMP are asking anyone who has seen a vehicle with damage matching the description provided, or anyone who has any information related to this incident, to call Portage RCMP at 204-857-4445.