Salem Police Investigating Fatal Pedestrian Involved Crash
Center St was closed for approximately 3 1/2 hours while the police reconstructed the scene
(SALEM, Ore) — Salem Police are investigating an early morning fatal vehicle/pedestrian crash on Center St NE near 18th St NE.
Salem Police officers were dispatched to the intersection at approximately 5:45 this morning and found that 64-year old Stephen Buchanan of Keizer had been driving eastbound on Center St when he struck 77-year old David McGregor of Salem.
Mr McGregor was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Mr McGregor was in an unmarked crosswalk attempting to cross Center St from the south side of the roadway to the north side when he was struck by the 2005 full-sized van that was being operated by Mr. Buchanan.
He was wearing dark clothing and was walking very slowly with a cane at the time of the incident.
Mr Buchanan stopped immediately and was cooperative with the investigation.
Center St was closed for approximately 3 1/2 hours while the Salem Police Department Traffic Control Unit reconstructed the scene.
No arrests have been made or citations issued at this time as the investigation is continuing.
The Salem Police Department would like to provide these safety tips for pedestrians:
Especially in poor weather conditions, it is very important to be visible and vigilant while walking on and around roadways.
Make sure to cross roadways at intersections and in either marked or unmarked crosswalks.
Look both ways before crossing any roadway and make eye contact with approaching drivers to make sure they see you.
Don't assume that because you are in a crosswalk or are crossing with a signal that drivers actually see you.
Regardless of walking during the daylight or night time hours, always wear bright and reflective clothing and carry a light with you.
It is also a good idea to have some type of flashing light with you just to improve the chances that you will be seen by motorists.
Source: SPD
Video from the Scene:
