A pedestrian who is struck by one vehicle will likely sustain some serious injuries. Assuming this is true, imagine then just how catastrophic the injuries could be if a total of three vehicles strike a pedestrian in fairly rapid succession. This occurred earlier this month in the Strip District of Pittsburgh. City residents are likely aware that this is where vegetables and other fresh foods are sold wholesale.

According to Pittsburgh police, the incident occurred around 7:00 in the morning, when a woman was crossing the street, in a crosswalk, at Smallman Street and 14th street. As she did so she was struck by the first vehicle. Though that driver remained at the scene, presumably nearby the victim, somehow a second vehicle described as a box truck hit the woman as well. That vehicle did not stop however and continued on its way.

Seeing the injured woman, the driver of the third vehicle attempted to brake to avoid hitting her but was unsuccessful. Realizing what had happened, that driver remained on the scene as well. The third vehicle actually ended up pinning the woman to the ground.

The woman's injuries were described as being serious, and she was transported to Allegheny General Hospital. It was there that she sadly died.

The incident was captured on a video camera and driver of the box truck was ultimately apprehended driving near Erie. Though he admitted having been in the area at the time, he denied having anything to do with the fatal accident. Evidence found on his truck told a different story however and the 61-year-old man has been charged with leaving an accident involving a death or personal injury.

Source: The Tribune-Democrat, "Police: Pittsburgh pedestrian hit by 3 vehicles," Associated Press, Dec. 11, 2012

The Buffalo News, "Falls trucker charged after fatal pedestrian crash in Pittsburgh," Matt Gryta, Dec. 12, 2012