Pierce Co., WA (April 28, 2026) – A pedestrian was killed in an early-morning crash along State Route 7 in the Parkland area of Pierce County on Saturday, April 25. The collision occurred just before 4 a.m. near 104th Street, not far from Pacific Lutheran University.
A 62-year-old woman driving a Nissan SUV was heading north on SR-7 when she struck a pedestrian who was walking on the roadway. The pedestrian died as a result of the crash. The driver was not injured.
SR-7 was closed for three hours and eighteen minutes while emergency units investigated and cleared the scene. Officials later confirmed there were no concerns about drugs or alcohol as factors in the crash. No further details about the pedestrian’s identity have been released. The incident remains under review by authorities. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
What Are Common Factors in Pedestrian Crashes on Washington State Highways?
Pedestrian crashes on state highways are among the most serious types of traffic incidents, largely because people on foot have no protection against a moving vehicle. On multi-lane roads like State Route 7, the risk increases when pedestrians are present in travel lanes rather than on sidewalks or shoulders. Poor lighting in the pre-dawn hours can make it significantly harder for drivers to see someone on the road.
Washington State sees a notable number of pedestrian fatalities each year on both urban and suburban roadways. Crashes in the early morning hours are particularly common in this category, as low visibility and quiet roads can create dangerous conditions. The combination of a fast-moving highway and a pedestrian in an unexpected location leaves little time for a driver to react.
