DALLAS — He moved in the shadows, but his presence was never overlooked. Jose Benitez was a security guard at La Yarda in Deep Ellum and a bodyguard for many artists.

Using a translator, coworker Saul Torres told WFAA Benitez was humble, noble, and loyal to the end. As several people rushed to his side, Benitez took his last breath Sunday night.

Dallas Police said they responded to the 400 block of West Davis Street in Bishop Arts and saw Dallas Fire Rescue performing CPR on Benitez. Witnesses said the driver of the white SUV was speeding when he hit Benitez as he was walking. Cell phone video showed the moments after the driver ran away.

Torres said a nearby business called him to tell him Benitez was hurt. When he couldn’t reach Benitez’s family, Torres rushed to be with his friend.

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