A 65-year-old Augusta man was fatally struck Sunday night by a vehicle while riding a moped in a hit-and-run incident.
Duane Rutledge was hit from behind by an unknown vehicle around 9:30 p.m. near the intersection of 13th Avenue and Martin Luther King Boulevard.
According to Lt. James R. Kelly of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, Rutledge was transported by EMS to WellStar/MCG, where he was later pronounced dead at 8:48 a.m. on Monday, following the collision. Investigators have launched a search for the vehicle involved, which is believed to be a 2015-2020 Chevrolet Tahoe or Suburban with noticeable front-end damage.
The vehicle fled the scene, last seen heading north on Martin Luther King Boulevard from 13th Avenue. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating the suspect vehicle. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 706-821-1020 or the Traffic Division at 706-821-1478. Tips can remain anonymous.
Coroner Mark Bowen confirmed that Rutledge, a resident of Augusta, was the victim of the fatal incident. The victim was being remembered online by the nickname “Doc.”
Jobediah Benson-Sullivan commented, “Rest in peace Doc! I hope you were able to find peace in your life. It was good seeing you recently. Prayers for your family and friends. Give mom a hug for me!”
Note: If you have a better photo or memory of Duane to share, please text it to us at 803-487-3224.
