Whyte Avenue wake-up call issued after boy, 12, hit by truck
Pedestrian collision comes 1 year after David Finkelmann fatally struck in crosswalk
A pedestrian collision on Whyte Avenue last week that left a 12-year-old boy in hospital with serious head injuries prompted police to issue warnings to drivers and pedestrians Tuesday.
Witnesses told police the boy and his mother were walking east across 104 Street when a pick-up truck turning off of Whyte Avenue hit the boy last Thursday.
“With unseasonably warm winter conditions this year, foot and vehicle traffic has increased on the avenue, also increasing the chances of pedestrian collisions,” said Const. Matthew Li, with the EPS Whyte Avenue Beats team.
“Everyone must be aware that this area has high vehicle and pedestrian traffic and can become congested at certain times throughout the day.”
Every year about a dozen pedestrians are hit by vehicles on the popular entertainment district.
One year ago Dave Finkelman, university student, musician and radio host, was killed after he was struck by a left-turning car while crossing Whyte Avenue in a marked crosswalk at 101st Street.
Murray Davison, executive director of the Old Strathcona Business Association urges drivers and pedestrians to “look out for one another.
“Old Strathcona is a vibrant, walkable destination and we need to help ensure that all of our guests, both pedestrians and drivers, are safe at all times,” said Davison.