WAUKEGAN, Ill. — The Waukegan community is in shock following a heartbreaking hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of Michelle Heidbrick, a 36-year-old pregnant woman from Mundelein, Illinois, along with her unborn child. Authorities have confirmed that the suspected driver, 49-year-old Rosalinda Vaca, has turned herself in to police.
According to the Waukegan Police Department, officers responded to the 1100 block of Grand Avenue around 11:35 p.m. on Sunday after receiving reports of a pedestrian struck in the roadway. First responders arrived to find Heidbrick lying unresponsive in the westbound lanes. Emergency personnel immediately performed CPR before transporting her to Vista East Hospital, where, tragically, both she and her unborn child later died.
Eyewitnesses told investigators that Heidbrick had been crossing Grand Avenue southbound when she was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. The hit-and-run left the community devastated, sparking an urgent search for the driver.
On Tuesday, police identified Rosalinda Vaca, a Waukegan resident, as the suspect. Vaca reportedly became aware of the crash through news reports and voluntarily surrendered to authorities. During questioning, she admitted to driving a black 2016 Land Rover SUV at the time and claimed she struck something in the roadway but did not realize it was a person.
Vaca has been charged with felony leaving the scene of an accident, a serious charge that carries severe legal consequences. Police continue to investigate the incident, gather evidence, and interview witnesses.
Family and friends of Michelle Heidbrick describe her as a loving, vibrant woman who was excited about the life she carried. Her sister, Nicole Heidbrick, shared that Michelle had recently felt her baby kick for the first time—a joyful moment now turned tragically poignant.
“This is an unimaginable loss for our community,” said a spokesperson for the Waukegan Police Department. “We urge anyone with information about this crash to come forward. Every detail helps us ensure justice for Michelle and her unborn child.”
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers pedestrians face and the responsibility drivers have to remain vigilant and accountable. Community members are rallying to support Heidbrick’s family during this difficult time, while authorities work diligently to bring clarity and justice to the case.
As Waukegan mourns this tragic loss, the memory of Michelle Heidbrick and her unborn child will be remembered for the lives they could have led and the love they brought into the world. Authorities continue to encourage anyone with information about the crash to contact the Waukegan Police Department.