Chicago Pastor’s Wife, Halyna Hudzan, Killed in Hit-and-Run; Suspect Iryna Kalach Arrested in Fatal Crash

CHICAGO (WLS) — A Chicago woman has been arrested in connection with a deadly hit-and-run crash that killed Halyna Hudzan, a beloved pastor’s wife, in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago. The tragic incident occurred on January 26, 2025, when the 66-year-old Hudzan was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street, leaving the community devastated.

Crash Details

The fatal crash took place in the 700-block of North Oakley Boulevard, in a crosswalk near St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral, where Hudzan’s husband, Father Volodymyr Hudzan, served as a pastor. Halyna was walking across the street when she was struck by a red 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. The driver of the vehicle did not stop to assist her and fled the scene immediately after the collision.

Halyna Hudzan was transported to the hospital in critical condition, where she later passed away from her injuries. Her sudden death has left a profound impact on the community, especially those at St. Nicholas Cathedral, who had known her as a loving and compassionate woman.

Arrest of Suspect

Nearly three months after the hit-and-run, Chicago police made a significant breakthrough in the case. Authorities announced the arrest of Iryna Kalach, a 39-year-old woman from Chicago, in connection with the deadly crash. Kalach is accused of being the driver who struck Hudzan and then fled without rendering aid.

Kalach, who was arrested on April 24, 2025, is facing serious charges. She has been charged with one felony count of leaving the scene of an accident and one misdemeanor count of failure to render aid. Additionally, she has been cited for driving an uninsured car, failing to yield to a pedestrian, and failing to exercise due care. The arrest has brought some relief to Hudzan’s grieving family and the community, who have been waiting for justice.

Community in Mourning

The loss of Halyna Hudzan has left the community heartbroken. Those who knew her remember her as a woman of faith, kindness, and dedication to her church and family. She had been an integral part of the St. Nicholas Cathedral community and was deeply loved by parishioners.

Father Orestes Chizhenko, a fellow priest at the cathedral, said, “Halyna was the embodiment of love and compassion. Her passing has left a hole in our hearts, and we will continue to pray for her family, especially her husband, Father Volodymyr, who is grieving the loss of his partner in both life and ministry.”

The community has rallied around the Hudzan family, offering prayers, support, and financial assistance as they cope with this devastating loss.

Investigation and Legal Proceedings

The Chicago Police Department’s Major Accidents Investigation Unit has been investigating the hit-and-run case. Surveillance footage and witness testimony were key in identifying Iryna Kalach as the driver responsible for the crash. Kalach is currently facing felony and misdemeanor charges, and she is scheduled for a court hearing on Friday, April 30, 2025.

The investigation continues as authorities work to ensure that justice is served in the wake of this tragedy. Kalach’s arrest marks a significant moment in the pursuit of justice for Halyna Hudzan.

Support for the Family

In the wake of Halyna Hudzan’s death, a support fund has been established to help cover funeral expenses and provide financial assistance to her husband, Father Volodymyr Hudzan, and their family. Community members have shown tremendous support, including organizing memorial services and offering condolences during this difficult time.

What’s Next

The legal proceedings against Iryna Kalach will continue as she faces charges for her role in the crash. As the case progresses, Chicago police have urged anyone with additional information to come forward. The arrest of Kalach has brought a sense of justice to the Hudzan family, but the grief over Halyna’s untimely death remains deeply felt.

The case has also sparked conversations about pedestrian safety in Chicago, with calls for increased awareness and enforcement of traffic laws to prevent future tragedies like this one.