An Elma woman has been sentenced to five years of probation for her involvement in a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a pedestrian, according to the Erie County District Attorney's Office. Stephanie R. Kollatz, 37, was sentenced on Wednesday morning with additional penalties imposed as conditions of her sentence. Her driver's license has been revoked for one year and she has been ordered to pay a $2,000 fine.
The tragic incident occurred on the night of January 8th when Stephanie Kollatz was driving a minivan northbound on Transit Road in Elma. She struck a pedestrian who was walking along the road between French and Clinton.
Sadly, the pedestrian, who has not been identified, succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Instead of reporting the incident to the police, Kollatz left the scene.
Further investigation revealed that at the time of the incident, Kollatz was driving without a valid driver's license, vehicle insurance or an inspection certificate. Additionally, her vehicle registration was suspended. The day after the incident, deputies located her vehicle and Kollatz cooperated with the subsequent investigation, as confirmed by the Erie County Sheriff's Office.
In May, Kollatz pleaded guilty to one count of leaving the scene of an incident resulting in death, which is the highest sustainable charge in this case. The guilty plea acknowledges her responsibility for the hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of the pedestrian.
The identity of the pedestrian remains unknown and the Erie County District Attorney's Office is urging anyone with information to come forward and contact their office at (716) 858-2400. Any information provided could assist in furthering the investigation and bringing closure to the victim's family.
Woman Sentenced to Probation for Fatal Hit-and-Run, Male Remains Unidentified