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Family Devastated By Unusual Hit & Run Death

By Melissa Garcia

BRIGHTON, Colo. (CBS4) - The woman killed in an unusual hit-and-run in Brighton has been identified.

The Adams County coroner identified the body found off Interstate 76 near 136th Avenue as that of Cindy Augustian, 51, of Aurora.

CBS4's Melissa Garcia spoke with family members Saturday who were devastated over Augustian's death.

"Shock, disbelief, loss," said Kathy A. Hinkfuss, a cousin and friend of Augustian. "To hear that she was hit by a car and the car didn't stop; it's something that I can't even imagine."

Cindy Augustian
Cindy Augustian (credit: Kathy A. Hinkfuss)

Hinkfuss grew up with Augustian in their home state of Wisconsin, and said that Augustian moved to Colorado more than 15 years ago due to her love of life, adventure, and the outdoors.

"She ran the New York Marathon a few years ago. She was always very health conscious. Liked to run, liked to be outside. Hiking was one of her favorite things to do," Hinkfuss said.

Cindy Augustian
Cindy Augustian (credit: Kathy A. Hinkfuss)

She was shocked to learn of Augustian's sudden death that leaves many questions unanswered. Police believe she first struck a pole, drove off I-76 into a ditch, and crashed into some bushes.

911 received two calls from early morning drivers reporting a woman walking along the interstate, but police couldn't find her. Then, at 6:20 a.m., another driver reported a body lying on the side of the road. It was the body of Augustian.

Police believe that a motorist struck her, and didn't stop -- a thought that haunts Hinkfuss.

Cindy Augustian
Cindy Augustian (credit: Kathy A. Hinkfuss)

"It's very, very heartless, and it's just the opposite of what she was. She would give you the shirt off her back," Hinkfuss said.

Hinkfuss also said she's outraged that whoever hit Augustian didn't have the courage to stop and help.

The family is praying that someone comes forward.

The Adams County coroner says her cause and manner of death are under investigation.

Melissa Garcia has been reporting for CBS4 News since March 2014. Find her bio here, follow her on Twitter @MelissaGarciaTV, or send your story idea to mkgarcia@cbs.com.

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