COLUMBUS, Muscogee County, Ga., Oct. 17, 2026 — A man died on Friday night, October 16, after he was struck by a vehicle on Morris Road in Columbus. He was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Muscogee County coroner's office.
Officers were called to Morris Road just before 9 p.m. The Muscogee County coroner's office identified the man as John Paul Hardy, 47.
The Columbus Police Motor Squad is leading the investigation into the crash. No further details about the vehicle involved or the circumstances of the crash have been released.
It is not yet known whether any charges are expected. Authorities have not said whether the driver remained at the scene.
Our sympathies are with the family of the person who lost their life.
More on Crashes in Columbus, GA
This pedestrian crash happened on Morris Road in Columbus, GA. We cover crashes across Muscogee County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Muscogee County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do most pedestrian accidents happen?
A large share of pedestrian crashes occur outside of marked crosswalks and intersections, usually on roads without adequate lighting or sidewalks, where drivers have less time to see and react to someone on foot.
Are pedestrian accidents more common at night?
Yes. Reduced visibility after dark makes it harder for drivers to spot pedestrians, and a majority of fatal pedestrian crashes nationally happen in evening or nighttime hours.
What should a pedestrian do after being hit by a car?
If possible, stay where it's safe, call 911, and wait for medical evaluation even if injuries seem minor. Getting checked out quickly can catch injuries that aren't obvious right away, and a police report creates an official record of what happened.
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
In Georgia, as in most states, pedestrians generally have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections, but drivers and pedestrians both share responsibility for watching out for each other, especially where there's no signal or crosswalk nearby.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Columbus, GA
Anyone who witnesses or is involved in a pedestrian crash should call 911 right away so emergency crews and police can respond. Stay on the scene if it's safe to do so, and avoid moving an injured person unless there's immediate danger. Even pedestrians who feel fine after being struck should seek medical attention, since some injuries, especially head or internal injuries, don't show symptoms right away. It's also worth writing down what you remember as soon as possible, including where you were, what direction traffic was moving, and whether any lighting or road conditions played a role, since those details can fade quickly and may matter later to investigators or insurers.
