On the night of Friday, August 22, 2025, a vibrant life was tragically extinguished on West Broad Street in Henrico, Virginia. Tasha Baker, a 39-year-old woman from New York, was struck by a vehicle in a devastating hit-and-run crash while crossing the 7000 block near Emerywood Parkway. Despite the swift response of emergency crews, Tasha succumbed to her injuries at the scene, leaving behind a grieving family, friends, and a community shaken by her sudden loss.

The incident unfolded around 10:40 p.m., under the cover of darkness, as Tasha attempted to cross the busy thoroughfare. Henrico County Police arrived to find her with severe trauma, but the driver responsible had already fled, leaving no trace of accountability. The callousness of the act has sparked outrage and sorrow, as authorities now pour their efforts into piecing together the events of that fateful night. Complicating the investigation, a second hit-and-run occurred shortly after, when another vehicle struck a car at the secured scene and sped away. Police are working to determine if the two incidents are connected, chasing leads with relentless determination to bring justice for Tasha.

Tasha Baker, though originally from New York, had called Henrico home for some time, living without a permanent address but never without a spark of resilience. Those who knew her describe a woman whose kindness touched hearts, whose strength inspired others, and whose spirit lit up even the darkest moments. Her life, though marked by challenges, was defined by her warmth and unyielding perseverance. To her family and friends, she was a beacon of light, and her absence now casts a heavy shadow over those who loved her dearly.

The Henrico community mourns alongside Tasha’s loved ones, grappling with the senselessness of her death. Her passing is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for road safety. The streets we walk should be places of security, not danger, yet Tasha’s story underscores the devastating consequences of reckless actions. As her family navigates this unimaginable grief, they have asked for privacy, seeking solace in memories of a woman whose spirit will never fade.

Henrico Police are calling on the public to help bring closure to this tragedy. Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact Crash Investigator S. Shoemaker at (804) 501-5000 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The department’s “Watch Out Ahead Henrico!” campaign echoes louder than ever, a plea for vigilance and responsibility on the roads.

Tasha Baker’s life was far more than the tragedy that claimed it. She was a daughter, a friend, a soul who faced life’s challenges with grace and left an indelible mark on those around her. As the investigation continues, her memory burns brightly, a call for justice and a reminder to cherish every moment. May Tasha rest in peace, her legacy carried forward in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.