Man dead by Turnpike had dementia, was hit-and-run victim, cops say

The body discovered along the New Jersey Turnpike on Tuesday afternoon has been identified as a Texas man with dementia.

New Jersey State Police Sgt. Jeff Flynn said 69-year-old Michael Shimanek, whose body was found near milepost 34.2 in Mt. Laurel down an embankment around 3 p.m, likely wandered away from a hotel near the northbound lanes of the New Jersey Turnpike, where Shimanek's body was found. The hotel had been evacuated after a fire alarm went off.

Flynn said Shimanek's death is being investigated as a hit-and-run and it's not known who or what struck the Granbury, Texas man. Investigators estimate Shimanek was hit around 3 a.m. and are looking for the driver who hit him and did not stop."The Turnpike is a major thoroughfare," said Flynn. The driver could be from anywhere.

Shimankek's body was found near exit #4 for Route 73 where several hotels are located.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Moorestown Station at (856) 273-3228. Anonymous tips are welcome.