Bedford, NH (June 11, 2025) – A tragic accident early Wednesday morning claimed the life of a 62-year-old unhoused man after he was struck by a tractor-trailer behind the Hannaford supermarket on Kilton Rd. Bedford Police responded to the scene at approximately 5:42 a.m. after receiving a report of an individual who appeared to have been run over.
Emergency responders confirmed the man had died at the scene. Initial findings from the Bedford Police Department suggest the man may have been sleeping beneath the trailer, which was parked at a loading dock when the driver initiated movement. Authorities believe the driver was unaware of the man’s presence until after the fatal crash.
The driver of the tractor-trailer has been located and is fully cooperating with law enforcement. The Bedford Police Department, with support from the New Hampshire State Police, continues to investigate the incident. A heightened police presence remains in the area as authorities work to collect evidence and interview witnesses.
While the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office has been made aware of the incident, they are not currently involved in the investigation, according to spokesperson Michael Garrity.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community members mourning this heartbreaking loss.
Fatal Truck Incidents and Vulnerable Populations in New Hampshire
This tragic loss of life in Bedford sheds light on the increasing dangers faced by unhoused individuals, particularly in areas near commercial zones and transportation hubs. Tractor-trailers and other large commercial vehicles present significant risks in these spaces, especially when visibility is low and areas like loading docks are not regularly checked for human presence before vehicle movement.
Unfortunately, fatalities involving unhoused individuals in proximity to industrial vehicles or facilities are not uncommon. The convergence of shelter-seeking behavior and routine commercial activity can lead to fatal outcomes when safety checks are not standardized or when the presence of vulnerable individuals is overlooked.
This incident highlights a broader systemic challenge at the intersection of homelessness, public safety, and commercial logistics. While the tractor-trailer driver is not currently facing charges and is cooperating, the emotional toll on all involved is undoubtedly immense.
Bedford Police Chief Daniel Douidi’s commitment to maintaining a presence in the area during the investigation reflects both concern and a need for public reassurance. However, moving forward, the incident prompts a deeper discussion about how facilities—especially those with high vehicle turnover—can adopt best practices to ensure safety. Routine pre-departure inspections, improved lighting, and secured perimeters are simple yet effective ways to prevent similar tragedies.
Additionally, this case underscores the urgent need for expanded outreach and housing options for vulnerable residents who may seek refuge in unsafe or unseen locations. Public health, safety, and housing systems must work collaboratively to identify at-risk populations and reduce the likelihood of preventable loss.
If you or someone you care about has been affected by a tragic transportation-related accident, Local Accident Reports can help you find the support you need. From trauma counseling to navigating investigations, we are here to provide guidance and compassionate resources. Call us today at 1-888-657-1460 for personalized assistance during this difficult time.
