Douglas County, OR (April 27, 2026) – A woman lost her life on Saturday night, April 26, after being struck by a vehicle while crossing Highway 42 in Douglas County.
The crash occurred around 10:59 p.m. near milepost 76. According to initial reports, a red Ford Focus was heading westbound with a green light when it hit a pedestrian crossing from Grant Smith Rd toward Highway 99 without a walk signal. Emergency units arrived at the scene shortly after the incident.
The pedestrian was identified as Vivian Kuntz, 40, of Eugene. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, Leo Thomas Durden III, 38, of Roseburg, and a passenger, Caitlinn Ann Durden, 35, were not hurt.
The roadway was impacted for about four hours while crews worked at the scene and cleared the area. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
How Pedestrian Crossings Affect Safety on Highways
Pedestrian accidents on highways often occur in conditions of limited visibility and higher vehicle speeds. Unlike city streets, highways are not always designed for foot traffic, which can increase risk when people attempt to cross outside designated areas.
Traffic signals and walk indicators are meant to guide safe crossing times. When pedestrians cross without a signal, drivers may not expect to encounter them, especially at night. Lighting conditions and reaction time can further affect outcomes in these situations.
Drivers are generally advised to remain alert in areas where roads intersect or where crossings may occur. Pedestrians can reduce their risk by using marked crosswalks and waiting for the proper signal before crossing. Even small timing differences can significantly impact safety in these environments.
