West Virginia State Police are investigating a fatal accident in Berkeley County that claimed the life of a pedestrian on Wednesday evening. The incident occurred around 6:50 p.m. on Baker Road in Martinsburg, leaving the local community in shock.
The victim, identified as 29-year-old Samuel Alberto Alomino Rivera of Martinsburg, was walking along the right shoulder of Baker Road when he was struck by a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The vehicle was driven by 53-year-old Jaime Bayliss, also from Martinsburg. Police stated that the collision occurred under circumstances that are still being examined.
Emergency medical personnel rushed Rivera to Berkeley Medical Center for treatment. Tragically, despite life-saving efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. Bayliss, the driver of the Jeep, was not injured during the incident and remained at the scene as authorities began their investigation.
Officials have not released further details about the conditions at the time of the crash, such as visibility or road hazards. It is also unclear if speed or impairment may have been contributing factors. Investigators are working to piece together the events leading up to the collision to determine if any charges should be filed.
The tragic death of Rivera has sparked concerns about pedestrian safety in the area. Residents have noted the lack of sidewalks or adequate lighting on Baker Road, which may increase the risks for those walking along the roadway. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the shared responsibility between drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution and prevent such tragedies.
Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance as the investigation continues. They are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information to contact the West Virginia State Police. The case remains open, with officials committed to uncovering the full circumstances behind this devastating loss.