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FAIRFAX, Fairfax County, Va., Oct. 27, 2026 — A pedestrian was critically injured on Monday morning, October 26, after a vehicle struck her in the parking lot of University Mall in Fairfax, according to the Fairfax County Police Department.
Officers and Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department crews were sent to the shopping center in the 10600 block of Braddock Road just after 11 a.m. An adult woman was hit by a vehicle and taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries.
The driver stayed at the scene and was not hurt. Few other details have been released. The type of vehicle involved has not been confirmed, though radio traffic among fire crews reportedly referenced a truck.
Crash Reconstruction detectives are investigating. University Mall, anchored by a Giant Food store, sits just south of George Mason University's Fairfax campus near the Kings Park West neighborhood.
We are deeply sorry for the loss suffered by the victim's family.
Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
More on Crashes in Fairfax, VA
This pedestrian crash happened on Braddock Road in Fairfax, VA. We cover crashes across Fairfax County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Fairfax County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What usually causes pedestrian accidents?
Many occur when a driver fails to see someone in a crosswalk, parking lot, or roadway, often due to distraction, poor visibility, or turning movements that focus attention elsewhere.
Does vehicle speed matter for pedestrian survival?
Yes. Even modest reductions in speed at the moment of impact can significantly change the outcome, since slower speeds give drivers more time to react and reduce the force of a collision.
Where do most pedestrian crashes occur?
A large share happen in parking lots, intersections, and other areas where vehicles and foot traffic cross paths, particularly where visibility is limited or drivers are maneuvering at low speed.
Are pedestrian accidents more common at night?
Low-light conditions do raise risk, since drivers have less time to spot someone on foot, but daytime crashes, including in parking lots, are also common.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Fairfax, VA
Anyone involved in or who witnesses a pedestrian crash should call 911 immediately so emergency crews can respond. If you're the pedestrian and able to do so, try to note where exactly the crash happened and whether anyone else saw it. Seeking medical evaluation promptly matters even if injuries seem minor at first, since some symptoms take hours to appear. Drivers should remain at the scene and cooperate with responding officers. Anyone with information about this crash is encouraged to contact the Fairfax County Police Department.
