Des Moines, IA (February 14, 2026) – A woman was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries after being hit by an Amazon delivery van late Friday morning in Des Moines’ Cheatom Park neighborhood. The pedestrian-involved crash took place on University Ave near 9th St just before 11:45 a.m., prompting a temporary closure of the westbound lanes. Emergency crews responded promptly and transported the adult female victim to a local hospital for treatment. According to officials, no citations have been issued, though the incident remains under investigation, with video footage being reviewed to determine the circumstances.
Key Details
- Reported: February 13 at 11:45 a.m.
- Location: University Ave westbound at 9th St in the Cheatom Park area
- Vehicles Involved: Amazon delivery van and pedestrian
- Injuries: Adult woman transported with non-life-threatening injuries
- Traffic Impact: Temporary closure of westbound lanes; now reopened
- Status: Police reviewing area surveillance as part ofthe investigation
What We Know So Far
- The crash involved a pedestrian struck while near or on University Ave at 9th St
- The victim was taken by ambulance for treatment following the collision
- The driver of the Amazon van has not been cited at this stage of the inquiry
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Whether the pedestrian was crossing legally or had the right of way
- The exact path and movements of both the vehicle and the pedestrian before impact
- If any contributing factors, such as speed or visibility, were involved
Local Context
Streets near parks and neighborhood centers, such as University Ave and 9th St, can see unpredictable pedestrian and vehicle activity throughout the day. In Des Moines, responders prioritize pedestrian safety while working quickly to restore traffic flow after incidents in areas like Cheatom Park.
What to Do Next
- Move to a safe area if possible and check for injuries.
- Remain at the scene and follow instructions from first responders.
- Save dashcam or phone footage.
- Monitor symptoms later and seek care if anything changes.
FAQ
Q: Why can injuries show up hours or days after an accident?
A: Some crash-related injuries—such as whiplash or concussions—can take time to show symptoms. It’s important to seek medical care immediately and continue to monitor for delayed pain or discomfort.
Q: Why do intersection accidents happen so frequently?
A: Intersections concentrate pedestrian crossings, turning vehicles, and traffic signals—all of which increase the chance of miscommunication or visibility issues that can lead to crashes.
Q: What do responders usually do first at an injury accident scene?
A: Responders assess injuries, provide immediate care, and secure the area to prevent further hazards. They also begin gathering information for their reports and direct traffic if needed.
