Family of Racine Hit-and-Run Victim Seeks Answers and Community Support as Police Search for Vehicle

Racine police are continuing to investigate a hit-and-run on Washington Avenue in Uptown Racine that left a 48-year-old man in critical condition.

The crash happened Friday at about 7 p.m. in the 1300 block of Washington Avenue. Police said Gib Rangel was crossing the street on foot when he was struck.

No arrest had been made as of Tuesday. Racine Police Department Sgt. Alicia Mitchell said investigators are searching for a specific vehicle and a person of interest. "We have a vehicle and person of interest that we are looking for," she said, adding that she could not share further details "in the interest of the investigation."

Rangel has undergone multiple surgeries and was still sedated on Tuesday. His mother, Mary Nava, said he was being taken in for more surgeries that day. The family has been traveling back and forth between Racine and Froedert as they wait for signs of progress. "How long is it going to take before he responds? At least so that we know he knows we're here," she said.

Relatives described the situation as a "nightmare" and said Rangel, a brother, son and uncle, faces a long recovery. They are also trying to understand what happened. "Right now, we're still lost and confused to try to figure out the pieces on our own," said his sister, Angelina Nava.

The family is asking anyone with information to come forward. "If you've seen a little bit of anything, it would help. It would definitely help," said Domi Ramos, a member of the family.

Family members said Rangel is widely known and liked in the community. "Gibby was well known in the community; really, really loved by so many people," Ramos said. His mother described him as very outgoing and said he gets along with everyone, adding that he "doesn't have a bad bone in his body." Angelina Nava said he could make a whole room laugh and that there was "just no way you didn't like Gib."

To help cover medical costs, the family has set up a GoFundMe page and is planning a fundraiser at La Esquina Del Barrio, 1518 Washington Ave., from 3 to 11 p.m. on Nov. 14. Ramos said they expect significant financial strain ahead. "He's going to have numerous bills in the future. So we just want to make sure that we can help out as much as we can," he said.

The family said they have already felt support from the Racine community as they rally around Rangel's recovery. "Just keep praying, and then hope for the best," Mary Nava said.