A Southern California community is mourning the loss of 44-year-old Josh Nichols, who was killed in a hit-and-run while walking home with his dog in Lake Elsinore.
Nichols, described by loved ones as a kindhearted and social man, was found lying on Riverside Drive near Baker Street in the early hours of February 18.
Authorities responded to reports of a man in the roadway around 1 a.m. and discovered Nichols unresponsive. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Based on evidence, investigators believe he was struck by a vehicle that fled the area. Friends suspect he may have been trying to retrieve his dog, Woodson, who remains missing.
Nichols’ brother, Jason, and best friend, Jeff Hippen, expressed their grief, remembering him as someone who always put others first.
“It ripped a piece of my heart when he died,” Jason said. “This wasn’t part of the plan,” Hippen added. “I want him to be remembered for his heart. Our love for each other was endless.”
A makeshift memorial now stands along Riverside Drive as friends and family call for justice. Authorities believe the suspect’s vehicle is a dark-colored car with front-end damage.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station at 951-245-3300 or Riverside Sheriff’s Dispatch at 951-776-1099.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help with Nichols’ funeral expenses.
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