It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of David F. Hart, a 71-year-old resident of Fort Wayne, Indiana, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained in a transportation accident. Mr. Hart passed away on Monday, July 28, 2025, following a devastating incident involving a Citilink bus at the intersection of Illinois Road and Hillegas Road.
According to the Fort Wayne Police Department and reports from local news outlets, the incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 24, 2025. Mr. Hart had just disembarked from a Citilink bus at the busy intersection when he tragically lost his footing on the curb. As the bus began to pull away, he was struck by its rear wheels. Emergency responders rushed him to a local hospital in critical condition, where he fought bravely for five days before succumbing to his injuries.
The Allen County Coroner’s Office confirmed that David’s death was due to multiple blunt force injuries sustained in the collision, ruling it an accidental death. His passing marks one of the traffic-related fatalities in Allen County for 2025, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced pedestrian safety measures and increased awareness around public transit zones.
### A Life of Quiet Strength and Enduring Kindness
David F. Hart was far more than a name in a news report—he was a beloved father, neighbor, and friend whose presence left an indelible mark on the Fort Wayne community. Known for his humility, warmth, and genuine compassion, David lived a life defined by quiet strength and unwavering kindness.
Throughout his career, David worked in various trades and service roles, where his meticulous attention to detail and strong work ethic earned him the admiration of colleagues and employers. Yet, it was his character that truly set him apart. Friends and neighbors recall David as someone who always greeted others with a warm smile, offered a helping hand, or took time for a kind word. Whether shoveling snow from a neighbor’s walkway or offering a ride to someone in need, his generosity touched countless lives.
“David was the kind of person who made everyone feel seen,” shared a close friend. “He didn’t need to say much—his actions spoke volumes.”
### A Community in Mourning
The news of David’s tragic passing has resonated deeply throughout Fort Wayne, particularly among those who rely on public transportation or frequent the Illinois and Hillegas roads area. Community members have expressed their grief and called for improved safety measures at bus stops and pedestrian-heavy intersections, especially for elderly individuals or those with mobility challenges.
“David was a familiar face to so many of us,” said a local resident. “This loss feels personal. We need to make sure our streets are safer for everyone.”
The incident has sparked renewed discussions about pedestrian safety and the need for stricter protocols around public transit operations. The Fort Wayne Police Department is actively investigating the accident, and authorities are expected to review surveillance footage and operational procedures to prevent future tragedies.
### Honoring His Legacy
David F. Hart lived a life of simplicity, decency, and quiet impact. Though modest in his ways, his legacy endures through the countless lives he touched with his kindness and generosity. He is survived by family members, close friends, and a community that will forever cherish his memory.
Funeral arrangements are being finalized by his family and will be shared with the public soon. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor David’s memory are encouraged to support local initiatives focused on pedestrian and transportation safety or to contribute to organizations dedicated to senior care in Fort Wayne.
As the Fort Wayne community reflects on this heartbreaking loss, we choose to remember David not for the tragedy that took him but for the life he lived—one filled with compassion, humility, and quiet grace. His memory will continue to inspire those who knew him and serve as a reminder of the importance of kindness in every interaction.
Rest in peace, David F. Hart. Your light will continue to shine in the hearts of those you touched.
