Student Struck by Vehicle in Crosswalk Sparks Safety Concerns
A 26-year-old student was injured on Tuesday, February 4, after being struck by a vehicle while crossing the 3rd Avenue crosswalk. The student was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The 20-year-old driver received a citation for failing to yield to the pedestrian, sparking concerns about safety on the roadway. The incident brings back memories of a tragic accident in 2021, where 22-year-old Maribeth Cox was fatally struck in the same area.
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Maribeth’s mother, Kari Peeples Cox, expressed her concerns about the need for increased caution among both drivers and pedestrians. “Everyone is in a rush, but they need to remain vigilant,” Cox said. “Students also need to be aware of their surroundings; it’s not just the drivers’ responsibility.”
To enhance driver awareness, speed monitors have been installed on 3rd and 5th avenues. Huntington Police Chief Phil Watkins described the incident as tragic, emphasizing the importance of driver awareness in a significant school zone.
The police department is reminding drivers to be extremely aware of children traveling to and from school. Cox extended her well-wishes to the injured pedestrian and her family, offering support and prayers for a full recovery.
