Charleston, WV (May 20, 2026) – A pedestrian lost their life on Wednesday morning after being struck by a vehicle along Interstate 77 southbound in Kanawha County.
According to state police, troopers were called to the highway near the 95-mile marker at about 6:46 a.m. on Wednesday, May 20. The fatal collision happened near Charleston and temporarily affected traffic in the southbound lanes.
Officials later reopened all southbound lanes shortly after 9 a.m. while crews continued working in the roadway. The identity of the person who died has not yet been released.
Investigators are still working to determine the circumstances leading up to the fatality.
We extend sincere sympathies to the family and friends mourning this loss.
Why Pedestrian Fatalities on Interstates Are Usually Severe
Pedestrian deaths on interstate highways are often linked to high vehicle speeds and limited visibility. Drivers traveling on major roadways may have little time to react when someone is in or near traffic lanes, especially during early morning hours or in low-light conditions.
After a deadly roadway collision involving a pedestrian, several factors are commonly reviewed. These can include lighting, weather, traffic flow, road design, and whether the person was walking near a shoulder or travel lane. Vehicle speed and stopping distance may also help explain how the fatal contact occurred.
Roadway evidence, witness statements, and surveillance footage can provide more detail during the review process. Medical findings and vehicle damage reports are also often used to piece together the sequence of events.
