Edouard Kongolo killed in pedestrian crash near Killingsworth Street

Man struck on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard before fleeing the scene

April 18, 2026 | Portland, OR

Portland authorities have confirmed the death of Edouard Bisimwa Kongolo, 51, following a hit-and-run incident in Northeast Portland.

Edouard Bisimwa Kongolo, 51, died after he was hit by a vehicle at Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Northeast Killingsworth Street in Portland.

What Happened in the Crash?

On April 7, just before 11 p.m., Kongolo was discovered with severe injuries at the intersection of Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Northeast Killingsworth Street. Witnesses reported that a vehicle struck him and fled the scene without stopping.

• Date and Time: April 7, around 11 p.m.
• Location: Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Northeast Killingsworth Street, Northeast Portland, OR
• Victim Details: Edouard Bisimwa Kongolo, 51 years old
• Initial Response: Transported to a local hospital with injuries thought to be serious but survivable
• Outcome: Succumbed to injuries on April 18
• Investigation Status: No arrests, no suspect or vehicle details released, next of kin believed to be overseas

The Portland Police Bureau's Traffic Investigations Unit is actively probing the case and urges anyone with information to come forward.

Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Occur So Frequently?

Hit-and-run incidents represent a significant public safety concern across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), these crashes often stem from drivers fearing legal repercussions, poor visibility, or distracted driving.

Data sourced from NHTSA's 2023 annual report on traffic fatalities.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving hit-and-run collisions, thorough investigations play a crucial role in establishing accountability.

“Road conditions, visibility, and lighting are all possible contributing factors considered and examined,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. “Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence.”

• Independent Investigations Essential: Seasoned legal professionals can uncover evidence overlooked by initial reports.
• Victim Rights Protection: Prompt action safeguards entitlements to compensation for medical costs and emotional impacts.
• Broader Implications: Apprehended drivers face severe penalties, including felony charges for leaving the scene.

“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital.”

Families may explore wrongful death claims to address losses like companionship and suffering, pending official findings.

Hit-and-Run Statistics and Prevention

Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight the urgency: Over one hit-and-run crash happens every minute on U.S. roadways, resulting in thousands of injuries annually.

• National Scope: More than 2,000 fatalities linked to hit-and-runs each year (CDC data).
• Urban Hotspots: Intersections like those in Portland see heightened risks due to traffic density.
• Prevention Tips: Pedestrians should use crosswalks and wear reflective gear, and drivers must remain at the scene to render aid.

Newsline, owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., stands as a premier digital news platform with an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence. Our rigorous standards ensure accurate, timely reporting on critical circumstances like this Portland hit-and-run. 

For transparency, view our Corrections Policy, which guarantees a 24-hour review of any submitted concerns.

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)

Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.