Speeding driver charged for killing pedestrian in Philly intersection, fleeing to New Jersey: police

PHILADELPHIA - A man is dead, and a 19-year-old has been charged with murder after a brutal hit-and-run at a Philadelphia intersection ended in South Jersey overnight.

Police were on patrol when they witnessed two Dodge Chargers speeding side-by-side near Castor and Aramingo avenues just after midnight.

Both vehicles had just run a red light when one hit a pedestrian crossing the street, according to authorities.

The victim, a man in his 40s, was pronounced dead at the scene after being launched onto the road by the vehicle. His identity is not known at this time.

Police say officers tried to follow the vehicles as they fled on I-95, but lost sight of them.

A short time later, Pennsauken police found the vehicle minutes from the scene with two males inside, a 19-year-old and 16-year-old.

The 19-year-old driver, identified as Joseph Vannauker was taken into custody, and brought back to Philadelphia for questioning. The 16-year-old passenger was released to his parents after being treated for minor injuries.

Vanauker is charged with homicide by vehicle, murder and reckless driving. Police tell FOX 29 that Vannauker was arrested and charged last fall for allegedly inciting a riot in Old City.