MJP –
CINCINNATI — Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge reported that while responding to a shots fired call on Thursday, a police cruiser struck and killed a male pedestrian, aged 19, in the city.
The victim was struck at approximately 6 p.m. while the cruiser was traveling parallel to a METRO bus on Este Avenue near Chickering Avenue, according to Theetge. According to her, the guy wasn’t even in the crosswalk when he was hit.
A statement from the Cincinnati Police Department states that the officer was unharmed and that he was driving with the lights and sirens activated when the accident occurred.
At the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, the man succumbed to his wounds.
Upon arrival at the scene of the collision, emergency services were informed that the pedestrian had died. As is customary in such situations, the policemen who were involved in the accident have been put on administrative leave until the inquiry is concluded.
The topic of how to prioritize pedestrian safety while also ensuring quick emergency response has been revived in light of this tragedy. More robust pedestrian safety measures, including improved crosswalks and traffic control systems in high-emergency locations, are being demanded by advocacy groups.
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A spokesperson “While we understand the critical nature of police responses to emergency calls, it is equally important to ensure the safety of all road users.” “If required, we should reconsider current protocols and assess how emergency vehicles handle heavy traffic at intersections.”
A community vigil will likely be held in the victim’s honor in the days to come. As the inquiry develops, the police will keep the public apprised of developments and will maintain their cooperation with local authorities.
Anyone with information regarding the collision is asked to contact the CPD Traffic Unit at 513-352-2514.
