RCMP say a hit-and-run driver who struck and killed a 21-year-old father on Vancouver Island last week may not have known he hit anyone.

Snuneymuxw First Nation resident Charles Tommy was killed Oct. 24 when he was struck by a vehicle on Harmac Road, south of Nanaimo.

In a news release Thursday, Nanaimo RCMP said witnesses reported seeing Tommy standing on the shoulder of the road and lying on the roadway before he was struck near the Cedar Road bridge around 7 p.m.

“The driver of the vehicle involved may not have realized he or she struck a person,” the release states.

“Police have taken numerous statements and collected both dash cam footage and surveillance video from the area and are actively reviewing the video in an attempt to identify the vehicle involved.”

Passersby and first responders provided first aid to the victim, but he died instantly, according to a police press release.

Tommy was identified by his family as the loving father of a seven-month-old son. He was known for his sense of humor, earning him the nickname “Laughter,” police said.

Tommy was also an avid fisherman who regularly shared his catch with Snuneymuxw elders.

“His parents are devastated by the loss of their eldest and only son,” the statement said.

Investigators are urging the driver who hit Tommy to come forward to give the family closure.

“At this time, Nanaimo RCMP will have no further comment on the investigation,” the statement said.

Police are also asking the public for help in identifying the vehicle and its driver.

Anyone with information regarding the fatal collision is asked to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.