Kent, Washington – Pedestrian Killed in Suspected DUI Collision

Kent, Washington  (August 23, 2019) – A pedestrian was killed following a collision with a pickup truck near the intersection of Lake Fenwick Road South and Reith Road on Friday night. The victim, a 37 year-old man who name has not been released, died on the scene. The driver of the pickup truck appeared to be uninjured and remained on the scene. However, he showed signs of impairment and was arrested on suspicion of DUI.

Officials responded to the scene around 10:43 p.m. Lifesaving measures were attempted on the pedestrian, but he could not be revived. According to the initial investigation of police, the victim was crossing Reith Road when he was struck by the pickup truck. Additionally, he was not in crosswalk and was wearing dark clothing at the time of the accident. No road closures have been reported in relation to the accident.

About Vehicle Accidents

We offer our sympathies and compassion for the friends and loved ones of the victim. Unfortunately, this is not the only known fatality involved with a case of an impaired driver. According to 2016 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 29 people die everyday from vehicle accidents involving an alcohol-impaired driver, which translates to a death every 50 minutes. Additionally, 2016 data also points to 28% of all traffic-related deaths in America. Driving under influence covers not only alcohol-impaired drivers, but also those under the influence of other substances. Drugs other than alcohol accounted for 16% of vehicle crashes in 2015 data. Marijuana use in particular is rising, with 13% of nighttime weekends drivers being found with marijuana in their system. Whether impaired by alcohol, narcotics, or any other substances, the dangers of driving under influence should be clear. Driving is an activity that requires awareness at all times and following street regulations as much as possible. Being under the influence of other substances brings down road awareness, as well as closing down reflex skills and attention.

We urge everyone to be in a stable health condition before going behind the wheel. Any condition that can cause impairments on your judgement puts many people at risk, which goes not only for drivers but pedestrians as well. Aside from the obvious dangers of drunk driving, it would also help to identify busy roads and try to avoid being in their proximity to minimize any risk of a vehicle accident. Any mistake can lead to injuries and damage not only to your person, but on other people as well. Our sympathies and compassion for anyone who was caught up in a vehicle accident due to intoxicated drivers.

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