Lincoln, NE : UNO student-athlete killed in hit-and-run crash on Saturday, January 14th 2017

Authorities have identified the victim of a deadly hit-and-run traffic accident near Lincoln as Merzedes Hart, 19, of Council Bluffs.Hart was a freshman student-athlete University of Nebraska at Omaha. UNO Athletics responded to news of Hart's death saying, "This is a hard day for UNO Athletics and the university."

"This morning, we were deeply saddened to learn that freshman Merzedes Hart, a member of the Maverick track and field team, was killed last night by an apparent hit and run driver," UNO Athletics Vice Chancellor Trev Alberts released in a statement Saturday. "UNO Athletics is currently working with campus counseling services to ensure that Merzedes’ teammates, coaches, and classmates have the resources they need. Our thoughts are with Merzedes' family, friends and teammates during this difficult time."

Some of Hart's teammates are competing in a track meet at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Saturday.

"Merzedes’ death is heartbreaking. Our track and field team is smaller than most Division I teams, and we consider ourselves a family. Losing one of our own is incredibly painful, and we will all miss Merzedes dearly," said Track & Field Head Coach Chris Richardson.

The accident happened shortly before 10:30 p.m.

Waverly Rural Fire and Lincoln Fire and Rescue crews were called to Highway 6 just west of N. 120th Street to investigate. First Responders found Hart's body. They say she had been walking in the area when she was hit by a vehicle and killed. The driver fled the scene.

Authorities later located the vehicle and driver, who was not immediately identified.

There were no immediate arrests or citations.

The investigation continues and an autopsy has been scheduled.

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UNO student-athlete killed in hit-and-run crash