Woman killed in Vancouver intersection as police warn of pedestrian safety

Vancouver police are urging more caution on the roads after a pedestrian was killed early Sunday, the second time in three days a pedestrian was struck.

The 45-year-old woman was crossing a marked crosswalk at Main Street at National Avenue just after midnight on Sunday when she was hit by a southbound SUV, said the Vancouver Police Department.

The force of the collision threw the woman approximately 30 metres. Despite efforts by paramedics and first-responders, she died at the scene.

The driver of the SUV remained behind and is co-operating with police. Alcohol and drug use are not believed to be factors in the crash, but weather could be as it was dark and raining heavily at the time of the collision.

Police said it was unclear whether the woman had a walk signal when she crossed the street.

The crash is the second time in recent days a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle in Vancouver, prompting police to issue a warning as shorter days and longer hours of darkness reduce visibility.

Last Thursday, a seven-year-old girl was injured after she ran out onto the road near East Pender Street and Victoria Drive at around 8:30 a.m. trying to get to her parents’ vehicle on the other side of the street.

The vehicle was travelling at approximately 20 km/h and the driver did not see the girl as she darted onto the road mid-block, between parked vehicles.

The girl was taken to hospital with minor injuries and has since been released, said police.

“This incident is an important reminder for pedestrians to exercise additional caution and for drivers to stay vigilant, especially during darker morning and evening commutes,” said Const. Megan Lui in a news release following the incident.

“With Halloween approaching and excitement building for trick-or-treating, we encourage families to plan ahead and remind children to use crosswalks, stay visible, and be aware of traffic when out in their neighbourhoods.”