SEATTLE — Two pedestrians were hit by drivers in King County on Monday. One of the pedestrians died. Police and first responders are now sounding the alarm, and reminding drivers to slow down when roads are wet.
The first crash happened in Seattle’s SoDo neighborhood. Police had 4th Avenue South near Industrial Way blocked off.
“Shortly before 5 a.m. this morning officers received reports of a collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian,” said Shawn Weismiller, a spokesperson for Seattle Police.
When officers arrived they found the pedestrian in the middle of the road, and shortly after he was pronounced dead by medics.
“When I just found out it was sadness and kind of frustration,” said Johan Lysne.
Seattle police said the driver who struck the pedestrian stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
“There’s no signs of impairment on the driver,” said Weismiller. “At this time information suggests that the pedestrian was not in an area designated for pedestrian crossing.”
Then around 7:30 a.m., Shoreline Fire responded to a similar call off Wallingford Avenue North. First responders said the pedestrian was conscious and alert.
Both SPD and SFD are urging pedestrians to wear bright and reflective clothing. They also ask drivers to be extra careful when driving in the dark and when roads are wet.
“The lack of sunlight, lighting, the weather, can affect driving conditions so my advice to drivers is take it slow,” said Weismiller.
The City of Seattle launched the Vision Zero plan back in 2015, to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries happening on the streets.
Officials say 93% of pedestrian fatalities occur on multi-lane streets.