INDEPENDENCE, Mo. — Independence police say a woman has died after she was struck by a vehicle on southbound Highway 291 near 23rd Street.
The woman, a pedestrian in the highway, initially suffered serious injuries, and first responders took her to a hospital, but she has since died from her injuries.
The crash happened just before 1 p.m., and Highway 291 was closed for about an hour. The roadway has since reopened.
“When the light turned green, he proceeded through,” Ofc. Jack Taylor said. “There was a pedestrian going west across 291 and she stepped out in front of that vehicle and got hit by that vehicle.”
Police said the incident is under investigation. Officials have not released any identifying information about the victim.
“Right now, we’re looking to see what the status of the pedestrian was, why maybe they would’ve stepped out in the road in front of the vehicle,” Taylor said. “Was the driver of the vehicle impaired was there any issue with that? So, we’re just running the course. We don’t know why at this point.”
Taylor said it’s tragic, but also a good reminder to stay alert while behind the wheel.
“As you’re driving just pay attention to people that are walking, pay attention to some of those hard to see motorcycles, other small cars. Just be aware of your surroundings,” Taylor said.
As part of standard protocol, police are looking into if impairment and distracted driving played a role in the crash.
