Hazel Crest, IL (September 17, 2025) – A 79-year-old man lost his life after being struck by a vehicle on Monday evening, September 16.
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Hazel Crest police responded to the scene near 174th Street and Kedzie Avenue shortly before 7:30 p.m. Officers arrived to find the victim suffering from severe injuries after being hit by a northbound vehicle on Kedzie Avenue near 175th Street.
The driver remained at the scene and provided aid until emergency responders arrived. Paramedics transported the man, identified as Eddie Smith of Hazel Crest, to a nearby hospital. Sadly, he was later pronounced dead from his injuries, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Authorities have confirmed that the South Suburban Major Accident Reconstruction Team is assisting with the investigation.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Eddie Smith during this difficult time.
Pedestrian Accidents in Illinois
Pedestrian accidents remain one of the most devastating types of traffic incidents. Unlike vehicle occupants, pedestrians have no protection against the force of a moving car. Sadly, this often leads to catastrophic or even fatal outcomes, as seen in the recent tragedy.
In Illinois, pedestrian crashes continue to be a serious concern. The Illinois Department of Transportation reports hundreds of pedestrian deaths and thousands of injuries each year. These accidents frequently occur in busy intersections, residential areas, and near schools or shopping districts. Many factors can play a role in pedestrian accidents, including:
- Drivers failing to yield the right of way at crosswalks
- Speeding or reckless driving on local roads
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Poor visibility, such as at night or in bad weather
Families who lose loved ones in pedestrian accidents may be left with overwhelming emotional and financial challenges. A wrongful death lawyer can help surviving family members understand their rights and pursue compensation. This may include damages for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and the pain and suffering caused by the loss.
Legal support is not only about recovering damages. It also provides families with the resources to navigate the legal system and hold negligent drivers accountable. Seeking guidance quickly ensures that important evidence is preserved and deadlines are not missed.
At Ankin Law, we know how devastating pedestrian accidents can be for families. We are here to help you through this painful time.
If you lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, you deserve answers and justice. Our team will fight to protect your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process.
If you or someone you care about has been impacted by a pedestrian crash in Illinois, contact Ankin Law today. Call us at (844) 600-0000 for a free consultation. At Ankin Law, we stand ready to listen, support, and fight for the justice your family deserves.
Note: We use outside sources such as news reports, police reports, social media platforms, and first-hand or eyewitness accounts about accidents that happen throughout the state of Illinois. We have not verified any of the facts surrounding this particular accident. Please contact Ankin Law, LLC, if you locate any incorrect information in our post. We will correct it immediately or remove a post if requested.
Disclaimer: This post is not intended as a solicitation for business. It’s vital to understand that these posts do not offer legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Legal outcomes can differ based on individual circumstances. For personalized legal guidance, please reach out directly to Ankin Law, LLC. The featured image used in this post was not taken at the accident scene.
