Editor Killed in Hit-and-Run; Suspect Arrested

Hope Cartwright, a 23-year-old associate editor at Virginia Living magazine, tragically died on Monday, February 16, after being struck by a vehicle while crossing a street in Richmond. The driver, identified as 41-year-old Richmond resident Latesha Coleman, is accused of fleeing the scene of the collision.

Law enforcement responded to the incident and found Cartwright unresponsive in the roadway. She was transported to a hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries that same night. Police were able to identify Coleman as the driver through traffic camera footage and license plate reader data, leading to her arrest within an hour of the incident.

Cartwright, originally from Traverse City, Michigan, was remembered by her editor as an exceptional team member who grew into a leader during her nearly two years at the magazine. The intersection where the fatal collision occurred is known to be busy, with local residents noting frequent accidents.

Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards commended the effective use of technology combined with police work for the swift apprehension. The department is currently investigating several other fatal collisions, highlighting a commitment to utilizing similar methods for timely resolutions.