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A former city mayor in her 50s died after being involved in a car accident in Bolton, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.
Gay Wharton was hit by a black Audi while crossing Chorley New Road on Friday.
The vehicle that struck her did not stop at the scene.
Police are requesting witnesses or dash cam footage to assist with their investigation
Wharton died at the scene, police said.
A 23-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and remains in police custody for questioning.
Current Mayor Cllr Linda Thomas wrote on Twitter that her loss was “devastating” for both the council and Bolton.
He said Wharton was “great at bringing people together” and praised his fundraising efforts for the domestic abuse charity Fortalice Bolton.
Cllr Thomas added: “Loved by all for his kindness and passion to help. A wonderful person, we are all very sad.”
Wharton was mayor in 2014 along with then-Mayor Cllr Martin Donaghy and another mayor, according to Bolton News, after the three worked together at the city’s Sainsbury’s branch.
Sergeant Andrew Page of GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “Sadly, a woman has lost her life after this incident and our thoughts remain with her family and loved ones as they accept this terrible news.
“This collision happened in broad daylight, so we want to appeal to anyone who may have been in the area at the time to come forward and help the police with our investigations.
“We are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who witnessed the collision or who may have images of the vehicle in question with the dash cam.
“Please come over and talk to the police.”
Anyone with information should contact the police on 0161 856 4741 quoting incident number 1019 from 11/13/2020.
Alternatively, details can be transmitted anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555111.
