Rochester Man Akili Nix, 45, Tragically Killed in South Wedge Thanksgiving Hit-and-Run: Police Focus on New Leads as Community Rallies for Justice
Obituary and Incident Report:
On Thanksgiving morning, Rochester resident Akili Nix, 45, lost his life in a tragic hit-and-run incident in the South Wedge neighborhood. Known as a caring father, loyal friend, and dedicated community member, Nix’s untimely death has left his family and friends devastated. Rochester police are actively pursuing new leads, hoping to bring justice and closure to his loved ones.
Nix, a lifelong resident of Rochester, was discovered in the middle of Gregory Street at approximately 3:00 a.m. on November 28, 2024. He had been struck by a vehicle later identified as a dark-colored 2015 Nissan Altima. The driver did not remain at the scene, leaving Nix critically injured. Emergency services transported him to Strong Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead due to the severity of his injuries.
A Life Remembered
Akili Nix was more than just a name in the headlines. Born on January 7, 1979, Nix was raised in the heart of Rochester, where he built a life defined by compassion and perseverance. His family remembers him as a devoted father to his two teenage daughters, who he often described as his greatest joy. Nix was an active member of his community, volunteering at local shelters and mentoring young men in his neighborhood.
Friends describe Nix as someone who could light up any room, with a hearty laugh and an ever-present willingness to lend a helping hand. His sister, Marissa Nix, tearfully shared, “Akili was the glue that held our family together. He made every Thanksgiving special, and this year feels unbearable without him.”
The Tragic Morning
As residents in the South Wedge neighborhood prepared for a day of celebration and gratitude, tragedy struck. Early Thanksgiving morning, Nix was walking home after attending a friend’s holiday gathering. Police reports indicate that Nix had likely been crossing Gregory Street when the Nissan Altima struck him.
Witness accounts and surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses have provided crucial information to investigators. Preliminary evidence suggests that the driver of the Altima may not have realized they had hit a person, a theory police are considering based on the trajectory and speed of the vehicle.
“We’re examining all possible scenarios,” said Rochester Police Captain Derek Simmons. “While we’ve identified the make and model of the car, our focus now is on locating the driver and determining their state of mind at the time of the incident.”
The Investigation
Police are working diligently to solve the case, with the investigation expanding across multiple fronts. The discovery of the vehicle—a dark-colored 2015 Nissan Altima—has brought some progress, though authorities have not disclosed whether it has been recovered or if it was abandoned after the incident.
Investigators have canvassed the Gregory, Hickory, and Ashland neighborhoods, speaking to residents and reviewing hours of surveillance footage. They are urging anyone with dashcam footage or information about vehicles matching the description in the area during the early hours of November 28 to come forward.
The Rochester Police Department has also enlisted the help of Crime Stoppers, offering a monetary reward for tips leading to the identification and apprehension of the driver. The public is encouraged to contact the Major Crimes Section or use the anonymous Crime Stoppers hotline.
A Community Mourns
The South Wedge community has been deeply shaken by Nix’s death. Local businesses and residents have rallied to support his grieving family, with several establishments launching fundraisers to help cover funeral expenses. A candlelight vigil is scheduled to take place at Gregory Street Park this weekend, where community members will honor Nix’s life and advocate for road safety measures.
Longtime friend and local activist Jamal Parker emphasized the need for justice: “Akili was a brother to so many of us. He didn’t deserve to go like this. We need answers, and we need the person responsible to come forward.”
The Push for Accountability and Safer Streets
Nix’s death has reignited discussions about pedestrian safety and traffic regulations in the South Wedge. Advocates have called for better lighting, additional crosswalks, and speed-reduction measures on streets like Gregory Street, which sees significant foot traffic.
The South Wedge Neighbors Association has vowed to collaborate with city officials to implement safety improvements, ensuring that tragedies like this can be prevented in the future. “This incident highlights the urgent need for infrastructure changes,” said Association President Clara Thompson. “We owe it to Akili and everyone who walks these streets.”
Ongoing Support for the Family
The outpouring of love and support for the Nix family has been overwhelming. A GoFundMe campaign set up to assist with funeral costs and provide for Nix’s daughters has already surpassed its initial goal of $15,000. Messages of condolence and remembrance continue to flood social media, with friends sharing memories of Nix’s kindness and infectious energy.
Seeking Justice
As the investigation continues, the Rochester Police Department remains committed to finding the driver involved in the hit-and-run. “We’re not just pursuing a case; we’re seeking justice for Akili and his family,” said Captain Simmons.
Police encourage anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that even the smallest detail could be pivotal. Meanwhile, the community remains united in their determination to honor Akili Nix’s memory and ensure his legacy is not overshadowed by the circumstances of his death.
Nix’s family has requested privacy during this difficult time but expressed gratitude for the community’s support. They have also urged the public to assist in the investigation, stressing the importance of closure and accountability.
Funeral Arrangements
A memorial service for Akili Nix will be held on Saturday, December 7, at the New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Rochester. Friends, family, and community members are invited to celebrate his life and pay their final respects.
As the city mourns the loss of one of its own, the hope for answers and justice remains steadfast. Akili Nix’s memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
