Update: Driver in deadly hit-and-run accident turned in by passenger in vehicle, police say

A Myrtle Beach man arrested in connection with a fatal May hit-and-run that left a former high school football player dead was identified by a witness in the vehicle, according to a police report.

Walter James Hayes, 60, made an initial court appearance on June 25 for a bond hearing on charges of leaving the scene of a May 18 collision and driving without a license, according to a Myrtle Beach Police Department Facebook post.

Nelson Green Jr., 30, of Myrtle Beach, later died of injuries sustained from the accident.

Hayes remains incarcerated at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center, according to county records.

A witness in the vehicle Hayes was driving came forward with information leading to Hayes’ arrest, according to a police report.

The hit-and-run happened around 1:20 a.m. in the area of Jennings Road and Stalvey Avenue. Authorities said the victim later died from his injuries after being transported to a local hospital.

Police found Green lying in the roadway, calling for help, the report said. Green was able to tell police that he had been struck by a vehicle.

On June 18, city police announced a reward of up to $1,000 for any information to help identify a suspect, identifying Green as the victim.

Green, 30, was a member of the Myrtle Beach High School Class of 2011 and played football during his time there, according to his obituary.

This story was originally published June 25, 2023 at 9:24 AM.