ROCHESTER, Monroe County, N.Y., Oct. 14, 2026 — A man died Tuesday night, October 13, after a vehicle struck him while he was crossing Lake Avenue near Clay Avenue, the Rochester Police Department said.
Police said the man, identified as a 47 year old from Rochester, was crossing Lake Avenue outside a marked crosswalk when a northbound vehicle hit him. He was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police. Investigators said they were working to confirm his identity and notify his family, though his name has since been released.
The driver stayed at the scene and is cooperating with investigators, police said. Officers do not believe drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash. No charges have been filed as of this report, and the case remains under investigation.
Detectives have been going door to door in the area, checking for surveillance video from businesses and homes near the crash site. Anyone who saw the crash or has dashcam or surveillance footage is asked to call 911 or the RPD Major Crimes Section at (585) 428-7157.
We are deeply sorry for the loss suffered by the victim's family.
When Pedestrian Crashes Are Most Likely to Turn Deadly
Darkness changes the odds for anyone on foot. Drivers see less, react later, and headlights only illuminate a narrow strip of roadway ahead. A pedestrian in dark clothing crossing outside a lit intersection can be nearly invisible until a vehicle is almost on top of them.
Evening hours carry extra risk because they combine lower light with heavier traffic from the commute home. Fatigue builds as the day goes on, for both drivers and walkers, and that can slow reaction time right when it matters most. Weekend nights add another layer, when more people are out walking and more drivers may be tired or distracted.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 84 percent of pedestrian fatalities occurred in urban areas in 2023. Dense street grids, frequent intersections, and crossings outside designated crosswalks all factor into that pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a pedestrian do after being hit by a car?
If possible, stay still and call 911 right away. Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional, since some injuries like internal bleeding or concussions don't show symptoms immediately. Try to get the driver's information and the names of any witnesses.
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
Pedestrians generally have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections, but drivers and walkers both share responsibility for watching traffic and crossing safely. Crossing mid-block or outside a crosswalk can complicate who is found at fault.
How can drivers reduce the risk of hitting a pedestrian?
Slowing down near intersections, scanning both sides of the road, and giving extra attention at night or in poor weather all help. Avoiding phone use behind the wheel matters especially in areas with foot traffic.
What injuries are most common in pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrians struck by vehicles often suffer broken bones, head injuries, spinal damage, and internal injuries. The severity usually depends on vehicle speed and where the impact occurs.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Crash in Rochester, NY
If you witness a pedestrian struck by a vehicle, call 911 immediately and avoid moving the injured person unless they're in further danger. Note details like the vehicle's direction, color, and any identifying features while waiting for police to arrive.
Anyone involved in or affected by a pedestrian crash should seek medical evaluation promptly, even without obvious injury. Remember to keep records of any police reports, medical visits, and communications related to the incident. If you have video or eyewitness information about a crash in the Rochester area, local police encourage you to come forward, since footage from nearby homes or businesses often helps investigators piece together what happened.
