Portland police identify hit-and-run victim from last week

Portland Police Investigate Hit‑and‑Run That Killed 57‑Year‑Old Woman on Outer Forest Avenue

Portland, Maine – Police on Monday confirmed that the victim of last week’s hit‑and‑run on Outer Forest Avenue was 57‑year‑old Nichele Roakes of Portland. The fatal collision occurred near 1837 Forest Avenue while Roakes was attempting to cross the street. A dark‑colored pickup truck struck her and fled the scene; the driver has not yet been identified, and no charges have been filed.

“At this time, we don’t have additional information regarding the circumstances of the crash,” said Police spokesperson Brad Nadeau. “We’re continuing our investigation and urge anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward.”

Authorities are asking anyone who saw the crash or who might have surveillance footage—dashcams, doorbell cameras, or other video—from the area on the night of the accident to call 207‑874‑8575.

The incident marks the second pedestrian fatality in Portland this year and the sixth since the start of 2025. Earlier in the year, 47‑year‑old Justin Mitchell was struck and killed on Riverside Street near the Homeless Services Center. In response to that tragedy, the city installed new crosswalks in the area months later.

The site of the Monday hit‑and‑run lies in a neighborhood rich with community landmarks: the Portland Friends Meetinghouse, the former Tortilla Flat restaurant building that is soon to become a housing development, and a rear entrance to Hannaford. Across the street is the Wellesley Estates housing complex entrance and a bus shelter. A crosswalk near the intersection has not been repainted since new pavement was laid.

City officials are reviewing pedestrian safety measures in the area as the investigation proceeds.