A 52-year-old Newport resident died after being struck by a vehicle while using a crosswalk on Broadway at Bedlow Avenue. The fatal accident occurred at approximately 10:23 p.m. on Aug. 5, 2024.
The Newport Police Department reports that the victim was crossing the street in a designated crosswalk when a vehicle driven by a 56-year-old resident hit him. The driver has been cited for right of way in a crosswalk (first offense) and operating without evidence of insurance, but no criminal charges have been filed at this time.
Update – On Friday, August 9, Newport Police identified the victim as 52-year-old Timothy Gillissie, according to ABC 6. The driver has not been identified.
Lieutenant Joseph C. Carroll, Public Information Officer for the Newport Police Department, stated in a press release, “The Newport Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident.”
Emergency responders from the Newport Fire Department arrived promptly at the scene. The victim was immediately transported to Rhode Island Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Authorities are currently working to notify the victim’s next of kin.
The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety, particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic.
Lt. Carroll emphasized the need for increased vigilance among drivers, stating, “This tragic accident serves as a reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety and we urge drivers to remain vigilant, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic.”
The Newport Police Department is appealing to the public for assistance in their ongoing investigation. They are urging any witnesses who have not yet provided statements or anyone with additional information about the accident to come forward.
“We are urging any witnesses that have not given a statement regarding the accident or anyone with additional information to contact the Newport Police Department at 401-847-1306,” Lt. Carroll said.
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Broadway can be difficult for drivers seeing pedestrians because of all the cars parked along the sides in many places. To a driver, it can seem like a pedestrian is popping out of nowhere. Still, I don’t know whether this has happened before on Broadway; I’ve lived here for a decade.
Regardless of what the law says, a pedestrian takes his life in his own hands if he steps into a designated cross-walk without looking both ways to be sure on-coming cars see him and are slowing down or stoppingGarry