Widow Of Retired Firefighter Killed In Hit-And-Run Wants Driver To Come Forward So She Can Find 'Peace'

Almost four months after 75-year-old George Kavanaugh died in a hit-and-run accident in front of the Lincoln Hose Fire Company in Somerville his widow is still seeking answers so she can find peace in mourning.

“I just want the person to come forward,” Anita Kavanaugh told My Central Jersey. “Until the case is closed, we’re not going to have peace.”

The retired Somerville firefighter was standing on the sidewalk just outside of the firehouse when a lightly colored SUV leaving the parking lot struck and ran him over just after 9 p.m. on March 6.

His friend and fellow retired fireman, George Riehman, 74, had just walked over to get his car when he said he watched the vehicle run over Kavanaugh twice before speeding off, according to nj.com.

Kavanaugh, a 50 year member of the volunteer fire department, and Riehman had just left a commemoration for former Chief Charles Becker.

“He’s held every position we have that’s notable. He’s an active, was an active member of the legion, very well liked,” the firehouse’s Assistant Chief Brian Iselin told ABC 7. ”Some of the things I can remember most or I’ll miss most is his warm and welcoming nature. Anytime he came into a room, wherever you were, in town, out of town, you always felt, he made you feel like you were coming home.”

The Somerset County Crime Stoppers are offering a $15,000 reward for information regarding the vehicle involved in the hit and run.

Anyone with information regarding this vehicle is urged to contact the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips Line at (888)-577-8477. Information may also be submitted online at www.888577TIPS.org