South Kitsap morning walker struck, killed by hit-and-run driver

A 61-year-old South Kitsap man was killed.

By Bob Smith • July 14, 2018 1:30 am
Investigators believe this white vehicle, whose image was captured on surveillance video, was involved in a fatal hit-and-run incident in South Kitsap. They are asking anyone who has seen the sedan to contact the Sheriff’s Office. (Courtesy Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office)
Investigators believe this white vehicle, whose image was captured on surveillance video, was involved in a fatal hit-and-run incident in South Kitsap. They are asking anyone who has seen the sedan to contact the Sheriff’s Office. (Courtesy Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office)

SOUTH KITSAP — A northbound vehicle — possibly a Chevrolet Cruze or similar make — struck and killed a 61-year-old South Kitsap man who was walking off of Sidney Road on Saturday morning, July 14.

Just before 7 a.m., the suspect’s later-model 2012-2015 white car hit the man, Michael D. Keaton, as he appeared to have been walking southbound on the northbound shoulder of Sidney before he was struck. Deputies and investigators from the Kitsap County Sheriff’s traffic investigation unit reported the victim had been a safe distance from traffic, walked against traffic and was wearing a bright colored shirt and reflective vest.

When sheriff’s deputies arrived at the accident, the area of Sidney and Matrix Loop in South Kitsap, they found the victim lying on the side of the road. He was pronounced dead by authorities.

Deputies located surveillance video showing the suspect vehicle traveling northbound on Sidney at 6:51 a.m. Video footage also confirmed the vehicle is a four-door sedan with five spoke rims.

Sidney from Lakeway Boulevard and the Port Orchard Airport was closed for approximately seven hours so that law enforcement could conduct the investigation.

No suspect or suspects have yet been identified, Sheriff’s Deputy Scott Wilson said. Anyone with information about the collision or location of the suspect vehicle is asked to contact Deputy Rob Corn at 360-337-4634 or RCorn@co.kitsap.wa.us. Callers may remain anonymous.