Vehicle leaves scene after fatally hitting pedestrian near his Alexandria home

The father of two was found after dark along the side of the road, police said.

March 22, 2018 at 11:58AM
Travis Pennig
Travis Pennig (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

A pedestrian was fatally struck along the road near his home in Alexandria, Minn., and authorities said Wednesday that they are looking for the driver and the vehicle.

Travis Pennig, 26, of Alexandria, was struck between 10:15 and 10:40 p.m. Monday on 34th Avenue near Meadow­land Estates mobile home park, police said. He died later in a hospital.

Pennig was "standing or sitting next to the curb, based on motorists who had gone by just a little before that," said Police Chief Rick Wyffels.

Asked if the driver likely knew a person had been hit, the chief said, "I would hate to speculate on that at this time."

Police are reviewing surveillance video and going over any pieces from the vehicle that were left behind. Meantime, they are asking the public's help in finding the vehicle and driver. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting the investigation.

Anyone with any information regarding suspicious or unexplained damage to a vehicle is encouraged to contact police at 1-320-763-6631.

Pennig was a stay-at-home father who lived with his fiancée, Corrie Michelle Pennig, and their 4-year-old son and 2-year-old daughter, said family friend Heather Wulfekuhle.

"I hope they find the person who did this or they come forward," Wulfekuhle said in a Facebook posting. She started an online fundraising effort to support Pennig's family.

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482

Travis Pennig, with Corrie Pennig and daughter Hayzel and son Orrin.
Travis Pennig, with Corrie Pennig and daughter Hayzel and son Orrin. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
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Paul Walsh

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Paul Walsh is a general assignment reporter at the Minnesota Star Tribune. He wants your news tips, especially in and near Minnesota.

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