The community mourns the death of Maureen Wener, a Deerfield cyclist who was killed in a hit and run in Highland Park

HIGHLAND PARK, Ill. (WLS) — This is a loss that is deeply felt at Deerfield and Highland Park.

Maureen Wener is a mother, friend and role model in her community. That's how many remember the 49-year-old woman who died in a hit-and-run accident Friday afternoon while riding her bicycle near Deerfield and Piccadilly roads.

“I hope they find the person who did it. It's hard to believe he's gone. Absolutely,” said Noreen Trotsky, youth services librarian at the Deerfield Public Library. “Maureen is thoughtful. She was a very nice person. She always greeted you and asked how you were, and she will be sorely missed.”

Police said the vehicle drove away from the scene, and Wener died at a nearby hospital from his injuries. Steven Hiller lives in the area, and said a woman attempted CPR immediately before the police arrived.

“What went through my head was how horrific it was, the fact that this woman went out on her bike and ended up falling over,” Hiller said.

Wener's influence was felt by many, as he served on several local councils. State Representative Bob Morgan, who represents the 58th District, knows him well. He called him a “true civil servant.”

“Everyone who lives here knows Maureen or knows her through so many different things and ways, Deerfield Public Schools District 109 and here at the Deerfield Public Library,” said Morgan.

Neighbors said she was abandoned by her son and husband, Paul. A memorial has grown in front of their house, honoring the woman who gave so much to those around her.

“We certainly need people like him. It's so tragic. It's a huge loss. He's known to a lot of people,” Hiller said.

Police have not provided any description of the vehicle that hit Maureen, and no one has been arrested yet.