LYNN — Community members came together to mourn the loss of Emira Barucija, the 55 year-old Lynn woman who was fatally struck in a hit-and-run crash on Western Avenue last week.
Barucija was using the crosswalk near 1000 Western Avenue at approximately 6 a.m. Wednesday. While crossing the street, Barucija was struck by a vehicle that then fled the area before she died on the scene, Lynn Police said.
In a written statement, police said they identified the suspect and located the suspected driver’s vehicle in Boston Wednesday afternoon.
Barucija’s husband, Redzo Barucija, said in an interview Monday that his wife worked as a cleaner at Salem Hospital, and was walking to her bus when she was hit. Redzo Barucija said the outpouring of grief after his wife’s death showed the impact she had on those who knew her.
“I know when a good person dies, they become a great person, but she was really a great person,” he said. “But I was surprised how many people loved her, how many people cried when she passed away. It really shows how good of a person she was. She was very hardworking, kind, polite, and everybody that knew her came to my home. They were all very sad.”
Adam Bagni, a spokesperson for Salem Hospital, described Barucija as a “beloved” and “integral” staff member.
“Emira ensured that those around her felt appreciated and caring was in her nature, especially with her colleagues. Whether it was bringing someone a box of chocolates to brighten their day, or offering a warm friendly smile, she touched our hearts,” Bagni said in a written statement. “Emira was well-liked by all who knew her. Her warmth, kind smile, and quiet yet calming demeanor will be greatly missed.”
Barucija and her husband lived in the River Edge Condominiums complex on Heaths Court. In the aftermath of her death, River Edge Trustee and Chairman Jordan Avery wrote that Barucija “epitomized what a neighbor is and should be.”
Redzo Barucija said that his wife’s parents and three sisters still live in Bosnia.
He said he wanted to thank the Lynn Police Department for promptly identifying and locating the alleged hit-and-run driver.
“People like [the driver] have no morality, no heart, they should not exist,” he said.
In a written statement, Lynn Police said the incident is still under investigation by Lynn and Massachusetts State Police.
“Charges will be sought when the investigation is complete,” Lynn Police said.
