ELKO, Nev.–Doug Schwartz, president and CEO of Elko Federal Credit Union here, was killed by a hit-and-run driver. Schwartz, 58, had been in the position less than a year, having become CEO in July of 2015.
According to police, and arrest has been made. Named as the suspected driver is Daniel Vasu, 28, of Elko. He has been charged with felony hit and run with substantial bodily harm or death. His bail was listed at $100,000.
According to the Elko Daily Free Press, Schwartz was struck by Vasu’s Jeep Cherokee while crossing the street from Machi’s Saloon & Grill to the corridor parking lot at about 8:10 p.m. Witnesses said that Schwartz had just left after having dinner. Elko FCU’s board often holds meetings at the restaurant.
“He turned over and said hello to me, and said hello to the girl that was sitting here, because he had just met her,” said an eyewitness, according to the Elko Daily Free Press. “He never even stopped walking, but he turned, looked both ways, he looked at us and then looked down the street.”
At that point Schwartz was struck by the vehicle.
“This guy, he didn’t slow down, didn’t stop, didn’t do anything, he just kept on going,” the eyewitness said.
The Elko Daily Free Press reported that customers and passers-by attempted to provide help before emergency medical personnel arrived. Schwartz died at Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital.
“We’re all deeply saddened by this senseless tragedy,” said Jon Wahrenbrock, chairman of Elko Federal told the Daily Free Press.
“We will continue to do business and we will meet the challenges head-on as they arise,” he said. “Our deepest sympathies to Doug’s wife, Diane, and his family.”
Schwartz was with the credit union for almost three years. Prior to being named CEO, he served as VP and chief commercial loan officer. Overall, he had 32 years’ experience in financial services, including 19 years as president and CEO of Moapa Valley FCU.
The $147-million Elko FCU has nearly 14,000 members.