Rahway man killed in hit-and-run in Newark

NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) -- Police are searching for the driver involved in a hit-and-run in Newark that left a 26-year-old man dead Tuesday night.

Around 10:30 p.m., Brandon L. Lawson, of Rahway, was struck and killed by a Nissan Altima near 18th Avenue and Bergen Street in Newark.

Lawson was crossing the street when the vehicle hit him and sent him flying.

The driver did not stop and drove away up 18th Avenue at a high rate of speed, according to the Essex County prosecutor's office. The Altima headed west on 18th Avenue.

Lawson was pronounced dead at the scene just before 11 p.m.

Lawson, the youngest of 4 children, was described as warm and open-hearted, a good person, who did not deserve what happened to him Tuesday night.

His family, too devastated to talk on camera, said they desperately want answers, and hope someone out there who saw something can help.

Investigators are checking surveillance video of the incident captured by the camera at a nearby supermarket.

No arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to call 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.