Mount Vernon, KY (June 9, 2026) – A California woman died after being struck by a vehicle on Interstate 75 in Rockcastle County on Monday evening.
According to the Kentucky State Police, troopers were notified of a pedestrian collision on northbound I-75 near the 62-mile marker on Monday, June 8. Preliminary findings indicate that 33-year-old Morabia Siddhi Suresh of Fremont, California, had been involved in a separate roadway collision before the fatal encounter.
Investigators said Siddhi Suresh exited her vehicle after her pet escaped. While attempting to retrieve the animal, she entered the interstate travel lanes and was struck by a 2026 Chevrolet Malibu driven by 25-year-old Caleb Valentine of London.
Siddhi Suresh was taken to Rockcastle Regional Hospital for treatment. She later died from her injuries and was pronounced deceased by the Rockcastle County Coroner’s Office.
Investigators reported that drugs and alcohol are not believed to have been factors in the collision. Additional details regarding the earlier roadway crash were not immediately released.
The investigation into the fatal collision remains active as detectives continue to review the circumstances. Our sincere condolences go out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Morabia Siddhi Suresh.
Why Interstate Pedestrian Collisions Are Often Severe
Pedestrian collisions on interstate highways frequently result in serious or fatal injuries because of the high speeds at which vehicles travel. Drivers often have limited time to react when a person unexpectedly enters active traffic lanes.
Many interstate pedestrian encounters occur after vehicle breakdowns, previous crashes, or other roadside emergencies. In these situations, individuals may leave their vehicles for various reasons and find themselves close to fast-moving traffic.
Investigators typically examine roadway conditions, visibility, vehicle movements, and the sequence of events leading up to the collision. Understanding why a pedestrian entered the roadway and how drivers responded can help clarify the circumstances surrounding these tragic crashes.
