Victim of Parkland hit-and-run dies 44 days later

A Tacoma man hurt in a February hit-and-run in Parkland has died from his injuries.

Earl Switzer Jr., 45, suffered serious injuries early Feb. 2 after being hit by a vehicle that fled. He died Saturday at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma.

Pierce County sheriff’s investigators are looking for the driver and are offering a $1,000 reward through Crime Stoppers of Tacoma/Pierce County.

The incident happened after deputies were sent to a disturbance at a bar and restaurant in the 10700 block of Park Avenue South.

A patron, later identified as Switzer, allegedly broke a fence and was trying to fight with customers. He left the bar before deputies arrived.

While deputies were questioning witnesses at the bar, a passerby found Switzer two blocks down the road. He had a serious head injury.

Deputies found tire tracks on the roadway and a black metal passenger-side mirror believed to be from an older-model truck.

The Medical Examiner said Tuesday that Switzer died of a closed head injury.

Those with information can call 800-222-TIPS.

This story was originally published March 21, 2017 at 11:17 AM with the headline "Victim of Parkland hit-and-run dies 44 days later."