Bloomington, IL (February 2, 2025) – A pedestrian lost their life after being struck by a vehicle in the parking lot of the Empire Plaza Shopping Center on East Empire Street.
The fatal accident occurred shortly after 1:45 PM on Friday, prompting a response from the Bloomington Police Department and the Bloomington Fire Department. Upon arrival, officers observed the severity of the injuries and initiated an investigation. Due to the nature of the incident, the McLean County Accident Reconstruction Team and the McLean County Coroner’s Office were called to the scene.
The Coroner’s Office pronounced the pedestrian deceased at the scene. Authorities have not yet released the victim’s identity, and an autopsy is pending. Investigators are reviewing the circumstances leading up to the crash, and further details may be released as the investigation progresses.
Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Pedestrian Accidents in Illinois
Pedestrian accidents in parking lots are particularly dangerous due to low visibility, distracted drivers, and heavy foot traffic. Parking areas, such as the Empire Plaza Shopping Center, often have vehicles maneuvering in tight spaces, with drivers backing up or making sudden turns. Unfortunately, these conditions can lead to serious or fatal pedestrian collisions, especially when drivers fail to check their surroundings.
Unlike roadway collisions, parking lot accidents may involve lower speeds, but the lack of pedestrian protection still results in severe injuries or fatalities. Elderly pedestrians and individuals with mobility impairments are particularly vulnerable in these settings, as reaction times for both drivers and pedestrians can impact accident prevention.
Families who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident often face overwhelming grief and financial burdens, including funeral expenses and emotional suffering. Illinois law allows families of wrongful death victims to seek compensation if driver negligence played a role in the incident. Establishing liability in parking lot crashes requires reviewing surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and vehicle positioning at the time of impact.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a pedestrian accident, Local Accident Reports provides resources and assistance to help families navigate their legal options. Contact us today to learn more about your rights and the next steps after a fatal accident.