Springfield, MO (May 22, 2026) – Two men crossing Chestnut Expressway late at night were struck by a car at the intersection with Grant Avenue, leaving one dead and the other in critical condition.
Police said the two pedestrians were hit around 9:52 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, by a 17-year-old driving a Dodge Charger eastbound on Chestnut Expressway. Both men were taken to a nearby hospital following the collision.
One of the men, Christian Berry, 32, later died from his injuries. William Turner, 28, remained hospitalized in critical condition as of Friday afternoon.
The circumstances surrounding the deadly crash remain under review as investigators continue gathering information. We share our deepest condolences with the family and friends of Christian Berry, while also hoping for the recovery of the injured pedestrian.
Why Nighttime Pedestrian Crashes Can Become More Dangerous
Pedestrian crashes at night are often more serious because visibility is reduced for both drivers and pedestrians. Street lighting, weather, vehicle speed, and clothing visibility can all influence how quickly a driver notices someone in the roadway.
Busy intersections and wide multi-lane roads may create added challenges for pedestrians, especially during late evening hours. Drivers traveling at higher speeds usually have less time to stop once a person enters their path. Even a small delay in reaction time can greatly increase the force of contact.
Investigators reviewing pedestrian collisions often examine traffic signals, crosswalk placement, skid marks, and available surveillance footage. Vehicle damage and witness accounts may also help clarify how the sequence unfolded and whether environmental factors contributed to the crash.
