An Easton man charged in a hit-and-run death in Fairfield was back in court on Wednesday.

Declan Kot plead guilty to manslaughter in the second degree, evading responsibility resulting in death and tampering with evidence.

The incident happened on July 4, 2020.

Kot is accused of hitting Marileidy Morel-Araujo with his car while she was walking her dog on Redding Road, then leaving the scene.

The 32-year-old woman later died at the hospital. 

Kot later admitted to drinking alcohol that day. 

Araujo’s family was in court. 

"He took someone very special from us who had so much more to give,” said Danny Fernandez, Marileidy’s fiancé. “She was a beautiful soul, and will remain in our hearts forever.”

Kot will face sentencing on Nov. 10. 

In a statement, the Fairfield Police Department says, "This successful conviction was made possible thanks to the collaborative efforts of our department’s Crash Investigation Unit, Detective Bureau and Patrol Division who worked around the clock to identify Kot as the suspect; the State’s Attorney’s Office who ensured that Kot was held accountable for his actions; and the citizens who assisted us during our investigation by sharing information and evidence. While no actions will ever bring the victim in this terrible tragedy back or heal her family’s wounds, we hope this conviction brings the family some closure and solace.”