An 84-year-old pedestrian, identified as Edward Pickles, died Thursday evening after being struck by a vehicle in north Phoenix near 32nd Street and Campo Bello Drive, just north of Bell Road. According to the Phoenix Police Department, officers were called to the scene at around 7:30 p.m. to discover Mr. Pickles lying in the roadway with life-threatening injuries.
Paramedics raced him to a nearby hospital, but despite extensive medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries. Investigators say preliminary findings indicate he was crossing mid-block — outside of a marked crosswalk — when the vehicle struck him. Visibility may have been compromised by moderate traffic and limited lighting in the area at the time.
The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the investigation. Police confirmed that driver impairment did not play a role. The department’s Traffic Bureau has begun analyzing speed, lighting conditions, and environmental factors to determine if any citations or charges will follow once reconstruction is complete.
In a statement, Phoenix police offered condolences to Mr. Pickles’ family, reflecting on the loss of a longtime community member and using the incident as a sober reminder of pedestrian safety — especially for older adults who may face greater difficulty judging traffic or reacting in low-light situations.
Neighbors described Mr. Pickles as a familiar figure in the neighborhood, someone who habitually took evening strolls and greeted passers-by. Locals say the 32nd Street and Campo Bello area has seen several pedestrian safety concerns, with community conversations underway about adding more lighting and clearer crosswalk markings to help prevent similar tragedies.
Authorities encouraged drivers to slow down in residential areas after dark and remain alert for pedestrians, particularly outside marked crossings. Pedestrians were urged to use designated crosswalks when available, and to wear bright or reflective clothing should they need to walk after sunset.
As investigators continue reviewing surveillance footage and accident reconstruction data, the Phoenix Police reaffirmed the city’s commitment to reducing pedestrian fatalities and improving street safety.
