A tragic pedestrian accident on Thursday night resulted in the death of Patrick Merchant, 34, a resident of South Market Street in Washington. The incident occurred around 7:15 p.m. near the 1200 block of Peoria Street. Merchant sustained critical injuries after being struck by a vehicle and was later pronounced dead at OSF Healthcare at 9:06 p.m.
Peoria County Coroner Jamie Harwood reported that Merchant died from multiple blunt force trauma injuries caused by the collision. He and another individual had attempted to cross Peoria Street about 400 feet east of a designated crosswalk at Eagle Street, an action that has raised concerns about pedestrian safety in the area.
The vehicle involved in the collision was driven by a juvenile who immediately stopped at the scene and cooperated fully with law enforcement. The Washington Police Department commended the driver’s cooperation, which is aiding their ongoing investigation. Authorities are assessing factors such as vehicle speed, road conditions, lighting, and potential distractions or impairments to determine the circumstances leading to the accident.
Peoria Street, known for its high traffic volume, has been the site of previous accidents. This incident underscores the risks pedestrians face when crossing busy roads outside of designated crosswalks. Safety advocates highlight the need for increased awareness among both pedestrians and drivers to reduce the likelihood of such tragedies.
Merchant’s death has deeply affected the local community. Known for his kindness and caring nature, he is remembered fondly by friends and family. Community members have extended their condolences and messages of support to Merchant’s loved ones as they navigate this difficult loss.
The tragedy also reignites discussions about improving pedestrian safety in Washington. Local officials may consider measures such as adding crosswalks, increasing signage, or enhancing street lighting to reduce nighttime risks. As the investigation continues, the community is reminded of the importance of vigilance, whether on foot or behind the wheel, to prevent similar devastating incidents in the future.