The Sanchez family faced the tragedy of their son being the victim of gun violence in 2023, so when Lori Sanchez saw police at her door, she was nervous and felt she couldn’t bear another tragedy.
At about 9:02 p.m. Jan. 24, Renton resident Richard Sanchez was walking his dog Esco in the 5100 block of Talbot Road S. when he and the dog became victims of a hit and run, leaving Richard Sanchez in serious condition.
His wife, Lori Sanchez, said they don’t live very far from the location of the incident, so Esco ran back home by himself with bruised legs to alert the family. Lori Sanchez said she now calls her dog “Esco the Hero.”
Renton Police Department collision investigator Kevin Lane said they are still looking for a dark gray or silver crossover SUV wanted in connection with the hit-and-run. The car, possibly a Kia or Hyundai with newer-style bright headlights, was last seen getting onto northbound SR 167 at S. 43rd St. by Valley Medical Center.
The vehicle should have damage to the front grill and possibly the windshield. Anyone with any information can contact Lane at klane@rentonwa.gov.
Regarding Richard Sanchez’s condition, Lori Sanchez said he’s doing better every day, but he’s in a lot of pain after multiple surgeries and more to come. She said Richard Sanchez had spine surgery and surgery on his pelvis. His tendons and ligaments in his right knee need surgery, his left leg is completely broken, he has various bruises on his back and arms, stitches and staples on the back of his head, stitches on his forehead, and his feet are swollen from the surgeries and broken bones, she said.
Before the incident, Richard Sanchez fished during his off time, helped people, and was family-oriented. Lori Sanchez said he was nervous about being unable to fish again, but she reassured him that he would get back at it.
The couple had already been going through a lot because their son Davonté Sanchez died in a shooting at Alki Beach on May 13, 2023. Lori Sanchez said she didn’t expect another tragedy in their life so quickly, but she will do what she needs and stay home with Richard for six months or more.
Lori Sanchez said they are seeking support on GoFundMe to help with their lost wages, medical bills, and future expenses related to adjusting to his new life because they’re not sure when Richard will be able to walk again.
Detective Lane said there has been no new evidence uncovered since the night of the incident, but a few citizens have called in with tips, and the case is under active investigation. Lane said there are several avenues to identify the vehicle they are investigating, but it is a slow and methodical process.
Lane said the driver would be charged with felony hit and run or felony vehicular assault, which would be determined by interviewing the driver as well as vehicle evidence. Lane said the driver should still turn himself or herself in because the felony charge is only exacerbated by their continued silence, and coming forward will be taken into account as far as the severity of the consequences.
Lane said civilians can prevent getting hit by wearing light-colored and reflective clothing and having a flashlight when walking at night. He said drivers can avoid hitting civilians by being conscious of their speed as it diminishes recognition distance at night, and by not using cellphones or infotainment systems while driving.
