Family of Brighton hit-and-run victim asks for help finding suspect

BRIGHTON, Colo. ( KDVR ) — On Friday, Oct. 4, 22-year-old Jusiah Suarez was walking along County Road 27 near County Road 2 1/2 in Brighton.

“We think he was walking from work down into town to go eat,” said his sister, Joie Suarez. “He didn’t make it there.”

Brighton Police said a car hit him, but then drove away. Then, a second driver, who did not see him lying in the road, also hit him. But, the second driver stayed and called the police.

Police arrived at around 7:15 p.m. that night, and Suarez was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

Joie said she was at home when her younger brother gave her a call just before midnight.

“Instantly, my stomach just dropped. I knew something was wrong,” Joie said. “I answered the phone and in the background, all I hear is my mom just screaming and crying. And I’ve never heard her like that before.”

She then rushed to CU Anschutz Medical Campus where her family was.

“It’s just been a waiting game since,” Joie said. “He’s in critical condition. He still is.”

The family organized a GoFundMe to help cover the cost of medical bills while Jusiah remains in the intensive care unit.

In the meantime, the family says they hope the first driver is caught. Police say the suspect vehicle is a 2000 Honda Civic, possibly black with possible damage to the front and a driver’s side mirror is probably missing. Anyone who has additional information is asked to call the Brighton Police Department tip line at 303-655-8740.

“I don’t want anyone to have to be in this kind of situation,” Joie said.

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