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White Center hit-and-run suspect released after probable cause not found

The King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office said the court did not find probable cause for a criminal charge.

WHITE CENTER, Wash. — The suspect accused in a deadly hit-and-run in White Center was released from jail after a judge didn't find probable cause to charge him.

Thomas Joseph Garrett, 81, of Seattle was struck and killed April 22 just after 10 p.m. while crossing Southwest Roxbury Street at 15th Avenue Southwest.

The suspect driver was released Monday, according to the King County jail roster.

The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office said it submitted a certification of determination of probable cause but the court didn’t find probable cause for the criminal charge.

The office said it could review additional information from police within the statute of limitations. However, as of Tuesday, the King County Sheriff's Office said it did not have additional information to report.

Authorities believe Garrett was struck by a silver Jeep Compass, which fled the scene after the crash.

King County deputies canvassed the area for information about the incident and identified the car’s license plate and a view of the driver.

Detectives tracked down the suspect in the Puyallup area where he was arrested May 16 during a traffic stop.

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