Clark County, WA (December 29, 2024) – A tragic collision involving a pedestrian occurred Friday evening on SR-500 near milepost 10, just east of Orchards. Emergency responders were called to the scene shortly after 5 p.m. following reports of a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle.
According to the Washington State Patrol (WSP), a 53-year-old Vancouver resident was standing in the westbound lane of SR-500 when he was fatally hit by a passing vehicle. The impact caused the vehicle to veer off the roadway, striking a tree before coming to rest in a nearby ditch.
The driver of the vehicle, a 20-year-old from Yacolt, Washington, was unharmed and was reportedly wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Authorities have withheld the name of the deceased pedestrian pending notification of his family.
The WSP continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding this fatal accident. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and everyone affected by this tragic event.
Pedestrian Accidents in Washington
Pedestrian-involved collisions remain a significant safety concern in Washington. According to state data, incidents involving pedestrians often lead to severe injuries or fatalities due to the lack of physical protection for individuals on foot. Highways like SR-500, which see heavy traffic volumes and high speeds, pose increased risks for pedestrians who may find themselves on or near the roadway.
In Clark County, pedestrian accidents highlight the need for improved safety measures, such as enhanced roadway lighting and pedestrian crossing infrastructure. Public awareness campaigns continue to emphasize the importance of driver attentiveness and pedestrian caution to reduce the frequency of these tragic incidents.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a pedestrian accident, support and resources are available. For more information or assistance after a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports. We are here to provide guidance and help during this difficult time.