Autopsy Scheduled On 14-Year-Old Victim Of CT Hit-And-Run: Update

HADDAM, CT — Gia Vincelett, a 14-year-old Haddam girl, was riding her bike with friends Thursday night when she was struck by a hit-and-run driver. She died on Monday, and Connecticut State Police announced that "a person of interest" in the crash has been identified.

"The 14-year-old victim of a hit-and-run incident in Haddam has succumbed to her injuries," state police said in a release. "The Office of the Chief State Medical Examiner will conduct an autopsy today on Gianna Vincelett, who was struck on July 29 on Route 81 in Haddam."

The crash occurred at about 10:30 p.m. in the 200 block of Killingworth Road/Route 81. Gia was traveling northbound when her bike was struck from behind.

"A vehicle has been recovered and a person of interest has been identified," state police said. "Central District Major Crime Squad Detectives are continuing to follow up on leads pertaining to this incident. The investigation is ongoing."

Additional information about the investigation was not disclosed Monday, but last week, state police said they were looking for a gray or silver 2006-2012 Hyundai Santa Fe in connection with the crash.

As of Tuesday morning, a GoFundMe campaign, launched over the weekend, has already raised more than $31,800 toward a goal of $50,000. The money will help her single mother, Megan Vincelett, and her 8-year-old sister, Shay, with the funeral and other expenses.

"This unexpected tragedy is also an unexpected financial burden," wrote Carlos Suarez, who organized the GoFundMe effort. "Any help will go a long way to make sure this family have zero financial stressors during this dark and deeply painful time in their lives."

Gia was a student at Haddam Killingworth Middle School, and last week, the school provided counseling to students, reported WFSB-TV.

Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact Connecticut State Police Trooper Derek Mauriello at Troop F at 860-399-2100, or via email at Derek.Mauriello@ct.gov. State police added that calls can be made anonymously.

To view the GoFundMe page in memory of Gia Vincelett, click here.

Note: GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.