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PASCO, Franklin County, Wash., Oct. 6, 2026 — A pedestrian died Monday evening, October 5, after being struck by a vehicle on North Fourth Avenue in Pasco. The man was later confirmed to have stopped at the scene, despite early reports suggesting a hit-and-run.
The pedestrian, identified by the Franklin County coroner as 48-year-old from West Richland, reportedly stepped into traffic near North Fourth Avenue and West Jan Street around 7 p.m., close to a convenience store in the area. He was struck by a car and died at the scene, according to the Franklin County coroner.
Initial dispatch information indicated the driver of a minivan had fled after the crash. The coroner's office said the driver actually remained at the scene following the collision, correcting that early account.
Investigators said drugs are believed to have been a factor in Morrison's death, though the specifics of that finding were not detailed. Pasco police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash.
Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased.
Where Pedestrian Crashes Concentrate on City Streets
Pedestrian crashes tend to cluster on wide, multi-lane arterial roads that cut through residential and commercial areas alike, streets built to move vehicle traffic efficiently. Long, uninterrupted blocks with few marked crossings often push pedestrians to cross mid-block, far from a signal or crosswalk, which raises the odds a driver won't see them in time to stop.
Unsignalled intersections are another recurring setting. Without a dedicated walk signal, both drivers and pedestrians are left to judge gaps in traffic themselves, a system that fails more often after dark or when visibility is already poor.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 77 percent of pedestrian fatalities occurred in the dark in 2023. Lighting, or the lack of it, plays a bigger role in these crashes than many drivers realize, especially on arterial roads where speeds are higher and reaction time is shorter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries are most common in pedestrian crashes?
Pedestrians struck by vehicles often suffer broken bones, head and spinal injuries, and internal trauma. Severity generally rises with vehicle speed at the moment of impact.
What typically causes pedestrian crashes?
Common factors include drivers failing to yield, pedestrians crossing outside marked crosswalks, poor lighting, distraction, and impairment by alcohol or drugs on the part of either party.
Does vehicle speed affect survival chances?
Yes. Pedestrians struck at lower speeds are far more likely to survive than those hit by vehicles traveling at higher speeds, where the risk of fatal injury increases sharply.
Where do most pedestrian crashes happen?
Many occur on multi-lane roads, at unsignalled crossings, or in areas without adequate street lighting, particularly during evening and nighttime hours.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Crash in Pasco, WA
Anyone involved in or witnessing a pedestrian crash should call 911 immediately so emergency medical help can respond. Even if injuries seem minor at first, a medical evaluation is important, since some injuries such as internal bleeding or concussions aren't obvious right away.
Those involved should stay at the scene until officers arrive and provide a factual account of what was observed. If safe to do so, noting details like vehicle direction, lighting conditions, and the approximate time can help investigators piece together what happened. Anyone with information about this crash is encouraged to contact the Pasco Police Department.
