Family pleads for answers in unsolved hit-and-run death

DETROIT (FOX 2) - A family is pleading for answers after a woman was killed in a hit-and-run crash on Detroit's southwest side back in May.

"I love her very much and I miss her and I need someone to please come forward for my child's justice. Please," said Helena Swenders.

The gut-wrenching pain is caused by the untimely loss of her daughter, Monica Swenders, who was killed by a hit-and-run driver near Fort and Calvary around 1:30 a.m. May 31.

"She got taken away way too early from the family," she said.

Swenders, who leaves a son behind, was hit by what police believe was a 2014-15 Ford Fusion that sustained left front-end damage. Those who called Monica A friend say this tragedy took away a kind spirit.

"I think that's why people loved her so much because she was unique, said Curt Langley, the victim's friend. "It was adorable just watching the way she would interact with people and just express herself.

Now the family is pleading for help in identifying who took their loved from them.

"Whoever could have possibly witnessed this please come forward, we need justice," said her cousin, Kristen Swenders.

Crime Stoppers is offering a $2,500 for any information leading to an arrest. Call 1-800-SPEAK-UP, and you can remain anonymous.

"Speak up please for our family," Kristen Swenders said.