Pregnant Woman and Unborn Child Killed in Hit-and-Run: Driver Charged in Illinois Tragedy
A Waukegan, Illinois woman faces felony charges after allegedly striking and killing a pregnant woman and her unborn child in a hit-and-run incident Sunday night. The tragedy has left a family devastated and a community searching for answers. This article provides a thorough overview of the incident, the inquiry, and the charges filed.
What Happened?
Michelle Heidbrick, a Mundelein resident, was crossing Grand Avenue at Jackson Street with her fiancé, Charlie Walkanoff, when she was struck by a black 2016 Land Rover SUV. Walkanoff described a horrific scene, recounting the impact as a “smack” followed by seeing Heidbrick “rolling down the street.” Emergency services were immediately called, but Heidbrick and her unborn baby tragically did not survive.
The Investigation and Arrest
Police quickly identified Rosalinda Vaca, 49, as a suspect. According to investigators,Vaca admitted to knowing she had struck something on Sunday night. However, she initially claimed she was unaware of what it was.
The situation took a disturbing turn when Vaca reportedly learned of Heidbrick’s death through news reports.It was then, police say, that she realized she had hit a person. A witness came forward, identifying Vaca and her vehicle as being at the scene and confirming she did not stop after the collision.
Vaca turned herself in to Waukegan police on Tuesday. she is currently being held awaiting a detention hearing.Her Land Rover has been seized and is undergoing forensic examination.
Charges Filed
Rosalinda Vaca is currently charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving death,a Class 2 felony in Illinois. This charge carries important penalties, including potential imprisonment. Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident, and additional charges are possible pending the results of the forensic analysis and further investigation.
The Victim and Family Impact
This tragedy has left a gaping hole in the lives of Michelle Heidbrick’s loved ones. She is survived by an 18-year-old son who recently began college. her family describes being “absolutely heartbroken” by the loss.
Walkanoff, still reeling from the trauma, shared his grief with WGN, stating their baby “didn’t deserve to die that way.” He also noted that Heidbrick was five months pregnant, having just reached that milestone on September 19th.
How You can Help
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help cover the funeral costs for Michelle Heidbrick. If you wish to contribute and support the family during this incredibly tough time, you can find the campaign here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-michelle-heidbricks-funeral-costs
Key Takeaways:
* The Incident: A pregnant woman and her unborn child were fatally struck by a vehicle in Waukegan, Illinois.
* The Suspect: Rosalinda Vaca, 49, has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving death.
* The Investigation: Police allege Vaca initially claimed ignorance of hitting a person, only realizing it after news reports surfaced.
* Family Impact: Michelle Heidbrick is survived by an 18-year-old son, and her family is devastated by the loss.
* Support: A GoFundMe campaign is available to help with funeral expenses.
Sources:
* WGN News
* [Lake and McHenry County Scanner](https://www.lakemchenryscanner.com/2025/09/23/police-arrest-and-charge-driver-in-hit-and-run-that-left-mundelein-woman-unborn-baby-dead-in-w
