Belleville, IL (December 3, 2024) – A 36-year veteran of the Belleville Street Department, David Harris, 64, suffered life-threatening injuries Friday morning after being struck by a vehicle while setting up barricades for the annual Santa Parade. The incident occurred near City Hall, on the 100 block of South Illinois Street, around 6:52 AM.
Harris, a dedicated city employee, was in the process of preparing for the parade when he entered the roadway to walk across South Illinois at Washington and was struck by a southbound black Dodge Journey. Despite immediate efforts by emergency responders, Harris sustained critical injuries and was rushed to Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, where he remains in critical condition.
The Belleville Police Department has launched a preliminary investigation into the incident, with reports confirming that the collision occurred as Harris was working in preparation for the community event. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet released further details.
Pedestrian Safety in Illinois
Pedestrian accidents, especially those involving workers in roadside areas, can have serious consequences. In this case, the collision occurred early in the morning, during the setup for a high-traffic public event. Such accidents highlight the risks that public employees face while working to ensure the safety and success of community activities.
While the investigation continues, authorities urge drivers to be extra cautious in areas where public events or preparations are taking place. Drivers should always be aware of roadside workers, especially in urban areas with high pedestrian activity.
For those in similar situations, it is crucial to ensure safety measures, including clearly marked barricades, signage, and road closures, are in place to prevent accidents. If you or someone you know is involved in a pedestrian accident, contacting local authorities immediately is essential for a thorough investigation.
Local Accident Reports will continue to follow this story as more information becomes available.