Corrections Officer Charged in Fatal DUI Hit-and-Run

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Authorities respond to a fatal hit-and-run incident at a Las Vegas intersection, emphasizing pedestrian safety.

News Summary

Maurice Washington, a corrections officer in Las Vegas, has been charged with DUI and hit-and-run after his vehicle struck and killed pedestrian Elijah Givens. The incident occurred at a busy intersection, raising concerns over pedestrian safety and accountability for those in public service roles. Witnesses reported that Washington fled the scene, only returning later with his mother. He was arrested following signs of impairment and has been denied bail. The investigation continues as the community mourns the loss of Givens.

Las Vegas – A 45-year-old corrections officer for the City of Las Vegas, Maurice Washington, has been accused of driving under the influence (DUI) in a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a pedestrian, 58-year-old Elijah Givens. The tragic event occurred in the early hours of Sunday, May 11, 2025, at approximately 3:30 a.m. at the intersection of Decatur Boulevard and Alta Drive.

According to reports, Washington was driving a 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560 when he struck Givens, who was crossing Decatur in a marked crosswalk but against the pedestrian signal. Witnesses stated that Washington was allegedly speeding northbound on Decatur at the time of the collision. Givens was found unresponsive in the roadway and was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Following the crash, Washington reportedly fled the scene without notifying authorities. Approximately 45 minutes later, he returned to the location accompanied by his mother. Witnesses had earlier seen a black Mercedes-Benz sedan leave the area shortly after the incident. Police discovered debris from the vehicle at the site, including a part of the right side mirror consistent with that of a Mercedes-Benz.

Upon their arrival, law enforcement officers observed signs of impairment in Washington, including slurred speech and a strong odor of alcohol. Washington confessed to having been drinking at a nearby hookah lounge prior to the incident, but he initially explained his absence from the scene by expressing fear. He was subsequently subjected to a field sobriety test, which he failed.

Washington was arrested shortly thereafter and faces serious charges including DUI, reckless driving, hit-and-run, and presenting a bogus vehicle registration. Following a court appearance, his bail was set at $250,000. The judge considered him a flight risk, particularly given his decision to leave the scene of the accident.

The city of Las Vegas has extended its condolences to Givens’ family amid this tragic event. Furthermore, the collision remains under investigation by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s Collision Investigation Section as they work to gather more details about the incident.

Background information indicates that pedestrian safety in Las Vegas has become an area of heightened concern in recent years. The intersection of Decatur Boulevard and Alta Drive has been identified as a critical point, with numerous pedestrians traversing the area. Authorities emphasize the importance of adhering to traffic signals and ensuring the safety of all individuals on the road, particularly pedestrians.

Washington’s next court appearance is scheduled for June 11, 2025, where further legal proceedings will unfold. The case has drawn attention due to Washington’s position as a corrections officer, raising questions about accountability and the standards expected from individuals in such roles.

As the investigation continues, updates are expected regarding the circumstances surrounding this incident and any additional charges that may arise. The Las Vegas community remains focused on ensuring that pedestrian safety remains a priority, reflecting on the heart-wrenching loss of Elijah Givens.