Durham, NC (May 13, 2025) – Emergency responders were quick to the scene, providing care to the injured victim after a tragic pedestrian accident near the interchange of U.S. 15/501 North and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Despite their efforts, the pedestrian, a 41-year-old Durham man, was pronounced dead following the incident.
According to a statement from the Durham Police Department, the fatal crash occurred just after 9:20 p.m. as a white 2020 GMC Acadia was merging from Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd onto US 15/501 North. The pedestrian was reportedly walking in a travel lane near the interchange when he was struck by the front of the SUV.
Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the victim as of this report. The investigation into the crash remains ongoing as police work to determine the full circumstances that led to the collision.
Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and the Durham community affected by this loss.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Roadway Safety in North Carolina
Pedestrian fatalities continue to be a critical safety concern in North Carolina, especially in urban corridors where roadways like Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd and US 15/501 intersect with foot traffic. Incidents like the one reported in Durham highlight the risks pedestrians face when walking near high-speed interchanges or poorly lit areas.
According to data from the North Carolina Department of Transportation, hundreds of pedestrians are injured or killed in traffic incidents each year, with many crashes occurring at night and in merging zones. Factors such as low visibility, lack of crosswalks, and limited pedestrian infrastructure contribute significantly to these tragedies.
Victims of pedestrian crashes—and their families—often face a challenging road to recovery and justice. While initial investigations focus on the driver’s actions and road conditions, deeper reviews may explore whether signage, lighting, or traffic design played a role in the crash.
For those mourning a loved one or seeking answers after such incidents, legal assistance can help navigate the complexities of wrongful death claims and insurance negotiations. It’s important for cities like Durham to continue enhancing pedestrian protections through improved infrastructure and public safety education.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.
