Hit and run accident kills pedestrian in Cass County

The Cass County Sheriff's Department is investigating a hit and run accident that took the life of one man early Sunday morning.

Police say the accident happened at approximately 1:20 a.m. on M 40 just north of Withers Street in Newberg Township. 

Officials have identified the victim as Duke Gowens, a 25-year-old resident of Cassopolis, Michigan.

According to authorities, early investigation shows that Gowens was walking in the northbound lane of M 40 when an unknown vehicle struck him.

Duke Gowens succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Both lanes of the two-lane highway were blocked off during the investigation.

A firefighter with the Newberg Township Fire Department says this stretch of road is a problem area for accidents.

If you have any information regarding this accident, you are asked to contact the Cass County Sheriff's Office at (269) 445-1560.

The accident remains under investigation at this time.