Virginia Beach, VA (May 23, 2026) – A man faces multiple charges after a pedestrian was struck and killed on Thursday night on Pacific Avenue in Virginia Beach on May 21.
The police said officers were called to the roadway around 9 p.m. after reports of a pedestrian being hit by a vehicle. Investigators later determined 34-year-old Kathleen Bachand was in a crosswalk when she was struck by a vehicle that fled the area.
Bachand was pronounced dead at the scene. During the investigation, detectives located 48-year-old John Peacock in a nearby hotel parking lot and took him into custody without further problems.
Authorities said Peacock has been charged with manslaughter and felony hit-and-run. Investigators also stated alcohol is suspected to have contributed to the deadly collision, but they continue reviewing evidence connected to the fatal pedestrian crash as the case remains active.
Our deepest condolences go out to Kathleen Bachand’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Why Crosswalk Hit-and-Run Crashes Usually Lead to Serious Investigations
Fatal pedestrian crashes involving hit-and-run allegations usually require extensive investigative work to identify the vehicle involved and reconstruct the moments before contact. Crosswalk cases sometimes receive additional scrutiny because traffic laws generally require drivers to yield to pedestrians crossing legally.
Investigators may review surveillance footage, witness statements, roadway markings, and vehicle damage to determine how the collision occurred. In cases involving suspected alcohol use, toxicology testing and driver behavior before the crash may also become important parts of the review.
Hit-and-run investigations can continue for days or weeks as detectives gather physical evidence and verify timelines. Information collected from nearby businesses, hotels, and traffic cameras may help establish vehicle movements and driver actions before and after the collision.