Athens, AL – Pedestrian Killed in Hit-and-Run at US 72 E and Old Decatur Rd

Athens, AL (February 17, 2025) – A tragic hit-and-run collision claimed the life of a pedestrian in Athens on Saturday, February 15. Authorities reported that the incident occurred around 10:15 p.m. at the junction of US 72 E and Old Decatur Road, near the Walmart store.

The Athens Police Department stated that the victim was struck by a vehicle at the intersection. Emergency responders, including paramedics and fire crews, arrived swiftly, but the man was found unresponsive in the roadway and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver involved fled before authorities arrived.

Investigators are now urging the community to come forward with any details that could help locate the driver. Officials believe the suspect's vehicle sustained significant front-end damage, including a shattered or heavily damaged windshield.

Local law enforcement is actively investigating the case, utilizing all available resources to gather evidence and manage traffic disruptions in the area.

Our thoughts and sympathies go out to the victim’s loved ones as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.

Pedestrian Fatalities in Athens and Legal Options for Families

Pedestrian deaths have been on the rise in Athens, particularly along busy corridors such as US 72 E. Statewide statistics indicate that pedestrian fatalities make up roughly 15% of all traffic-related deaths in Alabama, with factors like distracted and impaired driving, as well as insufficient pedestrian infrastructure, contributing to the increase. Safety advocates continue to push for improvements such as enhanced crosswalks and better traffic signals to protect pedestrians.

When a pedestrian is fatally injured due to someone else’s negligence, their family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. This type of lawsuit can provide compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one. Even in cases where the at-fault driver initially escapes accountability, legal action remains possible if they are later identified. Families dealing with such a tragedy should seek guidance from experienced wrongful death attorneys to ensure their rights are upheld and they receive the justice they deserve.

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal pedestrian accident locally, it’s important to have an empathetic and skilled Athens wrongful death attorney on your side. At Cockrell, Cockrell, Ritchey & Ritchey, we work tirelessly to secure favorable outcomes for grieving families after the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one in a car accident.

Call (205) 349-2009 to speak with one of our attorneys at Cockrell, Cockrell, Ritchey & Ritchey about your loved one's deadly Athens pedestrian accident. We’ll provide the legal support you need and ensure that your rights are fully protected throughout the legal process.

Notes: Our writers relied on secondary sources to create this article. Our staff has not independently verified all of the circumstances surrounding this accident; therefore, if you find any incorrect information, please contact Cockrell, Cockrell, Ritchey & Ritchey, LLP immediately so that we can update the post to reflect the most accurate information available. The post may be deleted upon request.

Disclaimer: This post's content is not intended to serve as legal or medical advice. The image used in this post was not taken.