Wichita, KS (February 7, 2025) – A 75-year-old man is in extremely critical condition following a hit-and-run crash in Sedgwick County on Thursday evening. The incident occurred just after 5 p.m. at the intersection of 47th Street and Clifton Avenue in the Oaklawn neighborhood, according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office.
Witnesses reported that a red Dodge Nitro was traveling south on Clifton Avenue when it struck an eastbound Ford Fiesta in the intersection. Authorities stated that the Dodge Nitro failed to yield the right-of-way to the Ford Fiesta and fled the scene immediately after the collision.
The impact of the crash ejected the 75-year-old driver of the Fiesta from his vehicle, after which he was tragically struck by his car. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital, where he remains in extremely critical condition.
The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Team is investigating the incident. Deputies continue to search for the driver of the red Dodge Nitro, and the intersection of 47th Street and Clifton Avenue will remain closed for several hours as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information regarding the vehicle or driver involved in this hit-and-run is urged to contact the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office.
Our thoughts are with the injured man and his family during this incredibly difficult time. We hope for his swift and full recovery.
The Dangers of Hit-and-Run Crashes in Wichita
Hit-and-run accidents, such as the one that occurred at 47th Street and Clifton Avenue, are particularly devastating because they leave victims without immediate aid and complicate the investigation process. Wichita, like many growing cities, has seen an increase in hit-and-run incidents, often due to reckless driving, failure to yield, and impaired driving.
According to the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), failure to yield is a leading cause of intersection-related crashes. When drivers disregard traffic rules or flee the scene of an accident, the consequences can be severe, as emergency responders may face delays in assisting victims who require urgent medical attention.
To reduce the likelihood of such tragic events, drivers must remain vigilant, adhere to traffic laws, and yield appropriately at intersections. Defensive driving practices, such as anticipating the actions of other drivers and maintaining safe speeds, are essential, particularly in residential areas like Oaklawn, where pedestrian and local traffic is common.
For victims of hit-and-run accidents and their families, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Beyond the immediate medical needs, there may be emotional trauma, financial strain from medical bills, and the challenge of navigating insurance claims or legal proceedings without identifying the responsible party. In these cases, seeking professional legal support can be crucial in pursuing justice and compensation.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a hit-and-run crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.