NEWARK, New Jersey — Two New Jersey women were tragically killed in a hit-and-run crash Saturday night as they walked home from a FIFA World Cup watch party, according to authorities. The victims were identified as Mariana Elizabeth Valverde Beltran, 58, of Elizabeth, and Maria Isabel DeLosAngeles Salgado Ayala, 61, of Newark.

The incident occurred around 11 p.m. on June 20 at the intersection of Park Avenue and North 7th Street. Surveillance footage captured the two friends — both wearing yellow shirts — crossing in a marked crosswalk when a northbound vehicle, described as a red or dark-colored sedan, barreled through the intersection and struck them. The women were thrown airborne by the impact. The driver fled the scene without stopping.

First responders from a nearby firehouse rushed to the scene and provided aid. Both women were transported to University Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.

On Tuesday, David Zapata-Vera, 26, of Newark, surrendered to police and was taken into custody. He faces multiple charges, including two counts each of second-degree vehicular homicide, second-degree leaving the scene of a fatal crash, and third-degree endangering an injured victim.

Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Newark officials are continuing the investigation. Witnesses described the vehicle speeding through as the traffic light was changing, with one noting the light was red or yellow for the driver’s direction.

This heartbreaking incident has shocked the local community, especially as the victims were enjoying a festive evening watching the World Cup before the fatal crash. Authorities continue to gather evidence and urge anyone with additional information to come forward.