Hazel Crest, IL (September 17, 2025) – A 79-year-old man has died following a vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash that occurred Monday evening in Hazel Crest. The tragic incident took place near the intersection of 174th St and Kedzie Ave just before 7:30 p.m.
Hazel Crest police responded to the scene after receiving reports of a pedestrian struck by a northbound vehicle traveling on Kedzie Ave from 175th St. Upon arrival, officers located the elderly man suffering from serious injuries. Emergency personnel provided immediate medical attention, and the victim was transported to a nearby hospital. Despite life-saving efforts, he was later pronounced dead.
According to witness accounts, the driver involved in the crash stopped at the scene, offered aid, and cooperated fully with police investigators.
This devastating loss has left the community in mourning, and our condolences go out to the victim’s loved ones during this difficult time.
Pedestrian Fatalities in Illinois
The death of a 79-year-old pedestrian in Hazel Crest is yet another painful reminder of how vulnerable individuals on foot are in traffic environments. Older adults are at especially high risk in vehicle-related pedestrian crashes due to slower mobility and increased injury susceptibility. Even a low- to moderate-speed impact can prove fatal.
Suburban intersections like 174th St and Kedzie Ave often see a blend of vehicle and pedestrian traffic, particularly during evening hours when visibility may be limited. Illinois law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and use caution in residential or mixed-use areas, yet fatal incidents like this continue to occur—often with heartbreaking consequences.
When a pedestrian is struck, the aftermath can involve extensive investigation, medical intervention, and emotional trauma for both the victim’s family and the driver. In fatal cases, families are often left with not only grief but also unanswered questions and legal complexities as they seek closure.
Ensuring accountability, reviewing traffic patterns, and examining driver behavior are all essential parts of understanding how these tragic events happen—and how to prevent future ones.
If someone you love was killed in a pedestrian accident, it’s vital to know your rights and seek trusted support during such a life-altering event.
Losing a loved one in a pedestrian crash is devastating—and no one should have to face it alone. Local Accident Reports is here to connect grieving families with compassionate professionals who can help them navigate legal, financial, and emotional challenges. Reach out today to take the first step toward justice and healing.
