The family of 33-year-old Emily Johnson of Mascoutah, Illinois, is grieving after she was killed early Thursday morning in a hit-and-run crash in Belleville. Police reported that Johnson was struck at approximately 3:30 a.m. on Green Mount Road, near the St. Clair County Orchard Trail overpass. The driver fled the scene before first responders arrived.

Johnson was rushed to the hospital but later succumbed to her injuries. Her sister, Sarah Savchuk, said Johnson had been on her way to babysit her nieces and may have had a flat tire at the time of the crash. “She was an amazing woman with a heart of gold,” Savchuk said. “She had dreams, a pure soul, and always wanted everyone to live freely.”

Johnson leaves behind a large family, including five nieces and two nephews. “She was a sister, an aunt, a bright shining light,” her sister said.

By Thursday afternoon, Belleville police reported that they had located the suspect’s vehicle and taken a person into custody, though no formal charges have been announced. Authorities continue to investigate the crash and are urging anyone with information to contact the Belleville Police Department at (618) 234-1212 or CrimeStoppers at (866) 371-TIPS.

The family described themselves as “devastated, in shock, and confused” by the sudden loss of Emily Johnson.