Pedestrian struck by northbound vehicle on State Route 7 near 104th Street
April 25, 2026 | Pierce, WA
A 49-year-old Puyallup woman lost her life after being struck by a vehicle on Pacific Avenue in Pierce County. The incident occurred early Saturday morning, as reported by the Washington State Patrol.
Charles Hilyard, 49, died after being struck by a vehicle while walking on State Route 7 near 104th Street on Pacific Avenue in Pierce County.
Washington State Patrol investigators detailed that Charles Hilyard was walking in the second lane of State Route 7 near 104th Street just before 4 a.m. A northbound vehicle struck her, resulting in fatal injuries. The driver involved sustained no injuries, and the investigation into the circumstances continues.
What Happened in the Crash?
Key details of the incident include:
- Victim: Charles Hilyard, 49, of Puyallup
- Location: State Route 7 at 104th Street, Pierce County
- Time: Approximately 4 a.m. on April 25
- Vehicle Involved: Northbound passenger vehicle
- Outcome: Pedestrian fatality, driver uninjured
- Agency: Washington State Patrol
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian safety on U.S. roadways has become a pressing concern, driven by factors such as the rise in larger vehicles including SUVs and trucks, road designs that prioritize speed, and instances of driver inattention. According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, pedestrian deaths in the state reached a record 146 in 2021, decreasing slightly to 129 in 2022.
Broader national trends highlight the urgency. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of injury-related deaths, with pedestrians facing heightened risks in urban and suburban areas.
Year |
Pedestrian Fatalities in Washington |
Source |
|---|
2021 |
146 |
Washington Traffic Safety Commission |
2022 |
129 |
Washington Traffic Safety Commission |
Data from the Federal Highway Administration indicates that pedestrian fatalities nationwide increased by nearly 77% between 2010 and 2021, underscoring the need for improved infrastructure and awareness.
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, securing a thorough investigation is crucial to uncover potential negligence. National legal analysts emphasize the importance of independent reviews to protect pedestrian rights.
“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal.
Bond highlighted the value of professional resources in gathering evidence.
Key takeaways from analyst perspectives on pedestrian incidents:
- Independent investigations help preserve critical evidence like witness statements and vehicle data.
- Determining fault often involves analyzing road conditions, lighting, and driver actions.
- Families may pursue claims to address losses, ensuring accountability.
Pending investigation outcomes, the family of Charles Hilyard could explore options for compensation related to wrongful death, covering emotional and financial impacts.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.
Formica stressed the role of legal support in navigating official investigations and safeguarding interests.
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Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one needs help, she offers free consultations.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).