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BELLEVIEW, Marion County, FL, Sept. 23, 2026 — A pedestrian died Tuesday morning, September 22, after being struck by a pickup truck on State Road 25 near SE 102nd Terrace in the Belleview area, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The Florida Highway Patrol said the crash happened around 6:35 a.m. as a Ford pickup traveled west on SR 25 and struck a man walking in the westbound lane ahead of it. Troopers said the driver did not see the man in the roadway before the collision.
The pedestrian, described by investigators as a 32-year-old Ocklawaha man, died from his injuries. The driver, a 43-year-old Ocklawaha man, was not hurt and was wearing a seat belt at the time, the agency reported.
Marion County Fire Rescue and the Marion County Sheriff's Office assisted at the scene. The Florida Highway Patrol has not released either man's name, though officials said next of kin have been notified.
The crash remains under investigation. A trooper is handling the crash review and a corporal is leading a separate homicide investigation, according to the agency, which has assigned the case a report number.
We are deeply sorry for the loss suffered by the victim's family.
How Do Misconceptions Influence the Outcomes of Pedestrian Crashes?
Many people assume pedestrian deaths mostly happen on quiet neighborhood streets or rural roads where sidewalks are missing. The evidence points the other way.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 84 percent of pedestrian fatalities occurred in urban areas in 2023. Higher traffic volume, more intersections, and more people walking near roadways all factor into that concentration, even though rural highway crashes can still be severe when they happen.
Early morning hours carry their own risk regardless of setting. Low light, glare, and drivers not expecting foot traffic on a highway shoulder or travel lane can all make it harder to see someone walking, whatever the surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do most pedestrian accidents happen?
Government crash data shows the large majority occur in urban and suburban settings rather than rural areas, largely because that's where most walking and driving overlap.
Are pedestrian accidents more common at night or in low light?
Reduced visibility is a factor in many pedestrian deaths, whether the crash happens at night or during low-light periods like early morning or dusk.
What should a pedestrian do immediately after being hit by a vehicle?
If possible, call 911, avoid moving unless staying in the roadway is dangerous, and seek medical evaluation even if injuries seem minor, since some symptoms appear later.
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
Pedestrians generally have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks, but drivers and walkers both share responsibility for watching traffic and crossing signals.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Ocala, FL
Anyone involved in or witnessing a pedestrian crash should call 911 right away so responders and law enforcement can reach the scene quickly. Do not move an injured person unless they are in immediate danger.
Even without visible injuries, it's wise to get checked by a medical professional, since shock can mask pain from internal injuries or fractures. If you're a witness, try to note what you saw, including vehicle direction, lighting conditions, and approximate time, in case investigators need that information later.
Following up with local law enforcement for a copy of the official crash report can also help family members or involved parties understand next steps in the days after the incident.
