Philadelphia, January 3, 2026
Philadelphia police are intensifying the search for a red 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee involved in a fatal hit-and-run that killed local DJ June Rodriguez. The incident occurred on Lancaster Avenue, leaving the community shaken and police urging for public assistance. Officers have identified significant front-end damage on the suspect vehicle and are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Philadelphia
Police Intensify Search for Red Jeep Grand Cherokee in Fatal December Hit-and-Run
Philadelphia police have renewed their urgent appeal for public assistance in locating a red or burgundy 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE with Pennsylvania license plate MXB-1835. The vehicle is connected to a fatal hit-and-run collision that occurred on December 20, 2025, on the 5600 block of Lancaster Avenue, resulting in the death of 54-year-old local DJ, June Rodriguez.
Incident Details and Ongoing Investigation
The fatal incident happened at approximately 3:44 a.m. when June Rodriguez was riding his bicycle east on Lancaster Avenue. As he made a left turn onto North 56th Street, he was struck by the Jeep, which had been following him. The driver of the Jeep swerved after the collision but continued traveling west on Lancaster Avenue without stopping.
Police believe the suspect vehicle, a red or burgundy 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE, likely sustained significant front-end damage, particularly to its passenger-side fender and headlight area. Authorities have released an image of the vehicle and are actively investigating.
Call for Public Assistance
Detectives are urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of the vehicle or the incident to contact the Police Department’s Crash Investigation Division at 215-685-3180, 215-685-3181, or by calling 911.
Community Impact and Road Safety Concerns
June Rodriguez, known as a beloved DJ at Bob and Barbara’s Lounge, was pronounced dead at Lankenau Hospital shortly after the crash. His death has highlighted ongoing concerns about road safety on Lancaster Avenue, particularly the stretch between 50th and 60th streets, which has been identified as a high-risk area for traffic accidents. A memorial for Rodriguez was held on December 30.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vehicle are Philadelphia police seeking?
Philadelphia police are seeking a red or burgundy 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE with Pennsylvania license plate MXB-1835.
Who was the victim of the fatal hit-and-run?
The victim of the fatal hit-and-run was 54-year-old June Rodriguez.
When did the fatal hit-and-run occur?
The fatal hit-and-run occurred on December 20, 2025, at approximately 3:44 a.m.
Where did the fatal hit-and-run occur?
The fatal hit-and-run occurred on the 5600 block of Lancaster Avenue.
What kind of damage is the suspect vehicle expected to have?
The suspect vehicle is expected to have significant front-end damage, particularly to its passenger-side fender and headlight area.
What are police asking the public to do?
Police are asking the public to provide information by contacting the Police Department’s Crash Investigation Division at 215-685-3180, 215-685-3181, or by calling 911.
Key Details of the Hit-and-Run Investigation
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident Type | Fatal Hit-and-Run |
| Date and Time of Incident | December 20, 2025, approximately 3:44 a.m. |
| Location | 5600 block of Lancaster Avenue, Philadelphia |
| Victim | 54-year-old June Rodriguez |
| Suspect Vehicle | Red or burgundy 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE |
| License Plate | Pennsylvania license plate MXB-1835 |
| Expected Vehicle Damage | Significant front-end damage, passenger-side fender and headlight area |
| Contact Information for Tips | 215-685-3180, 215-685-3181, or 911 |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
