Handyman killed in Prince William County hit-and-run

A popular handyman was killed in a hit-and-run in Prince William County.

Prince William County police said a county park ranger was heading northbound on Fraley Boulevard near Graham Park Road in Dumfries when he spotted a man, identified as 40-year-old Alvin Smith, down in the middle of the roadway at about 7:35 p.m.

The park ranger pulled over to the side of the road to check on the Smith when a blue vehicle struck Smith, detectives said.

Officials said the driver, only described as a male, initially stopped before driving off.

"Actually pulled in front of the county park ranger's vehicle. Looked like he got out of the vehicle to assess the damage and then got back and drove away," said Prince William County Police Sgt. Jonathan Perok.

Smith was rushed to the hospital where he died, according to authorities.

Investigators said they're working to determine why Smith was lying the roadway prior to the collision and to identify the driver of the vehicle that hit him.

Alcohol appears to be a factor, according to police.

FOX 5 has learned Smith was a beloved handyman in the area. He was well-liked and known by nearby merchants and residents.

"Always went out of his way to check on me, asked if the kids were okay, asked about my family," said family friend Myra Miles. "When my mom passed, he made a constant effort to come visit all of us. He just checked on us. He gave us words of encouragement and motivation to continue on a positive path."

Anyone with information that could aid detectives in their investigation was urged to call Prince William County Police at (703) 792-6500.