Boston

Woman Killed in Mattapan Hit-and-Run ID'd: Police

The victim was found dead near the intersection of Fottler Road and Hiawatha Road in Boston's Mattapan neighborhood

Authorities have identified the woman who was found dead in a Mattapan neighborhood following a hit-and-run on Thursday.

Boston police are investigating the death of Brenda Lee Keller, 57, of Boston, who was found dead near the intersection of Fottler Road and Hiawatha Road. Police received a call of an unconscious woman at about 3:20 p.m. and responded to the scene.

Officers were told by EMS that she was suffering from life-threatening injuries and head trauma. She died at the scene, officials said.

Neighbors described Keller as a sweet woman.

"She was a very nice lady, very charming, especially to the kids," neighbor Michael Spencer said.

Others who live in the area say the road where Keller was found is unsafe. It winds out of a curve that's hard to see past. Children often play in the area, which is why some people want increased safety measures.

"Speed bumps or slow signs or something," Jesse Coleman suggested. "We don't have any on this street at all. People come around there, where it straightens out and they pick up speed."

At the time of the Keller's death, a black-colored sedan with tinted windows was spotted traveling on Hiawatha Road in the direction of Blue Hill Avenue, according to police. The vehicle's driver is described as a woman with a heavy build and long hair who was wearing a white shirt and black pants.

Officials are seeking to speak with the woman.

Meanwhile, neighbors question the morals of the person who caused Keller's death.

"What kind of conscience do you have," Spencer said. "No morals or values to help another human being that's already down? When someone's down, why are you going to step on them? And he did even worse or she did even worse."

A cause of Keller's death was not immediately clear. The investigation is ongoing. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact Boston Police Homicide Detectives at 617-343-4470. Anonymous tips can be made by calling 1-800-494-TIPS.

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