An elderly woman died in a hit and run incident in Arorangi, on Tuesday night, marking the second road fatality in the country this year.

The incident occurred around 8pm near the Tumunu Garden Restaurant and Bar.

Cook Islands News has contacted the Cook Islands Police for comment on the incident and to inquire whether the suspect has been arrested.

The newspaper understands that police spokesperson Trevor Pitt has not been at work due to unpaid wages, and an email sent to acting Police Commissioner Aka Matapo remained unanswered as of press time last night.

The driver of the vehicle fled the scene.

“I was couple of cars behind and when we arrived at the scene, we saw the lady lying face down on the road,” an eye witness told Cook Islands News yesterday.

“People quickly gathered to stop and redirect traffic and call for an ambulance.”

Some of the people at the scene were furious with the suspect’s “cowardly” actions.

“How could you drive away and leave this poor lady to fight for her life. I don’t know how you gonna sleep tonight knowing what you have done. If you have some b**** turn yourself in at the police,” a person posted on Facebook.

Condolences poured in for the deceased on the Cook Islands Bereavement & Memorial Notices Facebook page yesterday.

“Opened FB, this popped up, a virtuous woman, hardworking, very humble and kind ... always looking out for others and her willingness to help. She has big heart, love for Jesus, and her family. She has left behind her husband and all their children and grandchildren, friends, her church family. But let us rejoice in knowing that she is resting waiting for Jesus's soon return,” a person posted.

“I’m so, so, very sad and I don’t know what to say! ‘Mama’ as I call her, is a loving and kind person; and the hardest working mother and grandmother I have ever known apart from my own mum. I’m going to miss seeing you ‘Mama’,” another person commented.

This is the second road-related fatality this year, following the death of an elderly tourist in Aitutaki earlier this month after being struck by a motorcycle. Police reported that the deceased, a 73-year-old Australian tourist, was walking back to his accommodation with his wife when he was struck from behind by a motorcyclist. The tourist sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead a couple of hours after the incident.

EDIT: The story earlier stated, according to eyewitnesses, that the deceased was on a motorcycle when she was struck by a vehicle; however, the newspaper cannot verify this. There are now reports that the deceased was on foot. The newspaper has contacted police for confirmation.