Dodge truck strikes couple standing outside Kia on Interstate 55
December 12, 2025 | Saint Louis, MO
Lejla Hadzikadunic, 23, from Lemay, Missouri, and Demarion Hendricks, 31, from East Saint Louis, Illinois, lost their lives in a tragic vehicle-versus-pedestrian incident early Friday morning in Saint Louis.
Lejla Hadzikadunic, 23, of Lemay, and Demarion Hendricks, 31, of East St. Louis, Illinois, died after a pickup truck struck them on Interstate 55 in St. Louis.
What Happened in the Crash?
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department reported that Hadzikadunic had pulled over on the northbound lanes of Interstate 55 due to a flat tire on her Kia. Hendricks stopped at the entrance ramp to help with the tire change.
A Dodge Ram traveling northbound on Broadway Street entered the ramp and struck both individuals before colliding with a guardrail.
- Victims' Outcomes: Hadzikadunic was pronounced dead at the scene, and Hendricks succumbed to injuries at a local hospital.
- Driver's Condition: The Dodge Ram driver sustained minor injuries and was hospitalized.
- Location Details: Northbound Interstate 55 entrance ramp from Broadway Street, Saint Louis.
- Time of Incident: Early morning, Dec. 12, 2025.
- Vehicles Involved: Kia, disabled, Dodge Ram, striking vehicle.
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Pedestrian crashes on highways often stem from factors like poor visibility, speeding, and failure to yield. According to the Federal Highway Administration, roadways like interstates see high speeds that increase crash severity.
Motorists must yield to pedestrians, especially in work zones or emergency stops. Bright headlights can help spot individuals near the road when used legally.
Factor |
Contribution to Pedestrian Crashes |
Source |
|---|
Speeding |
Increases crash force by up to 30% per 10 mph increment |
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) |
Nighttime Conditions |
75% of fatal pedestrian crashes occur in low light |
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) |
Distracted Driving |
Accounts for 8-10% of pedestrian incidents |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
Highway Ramps |
High merger speeds lead to 15% more collisions |
FHWA Highway Safety Data |
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, a thorough investigation is crucial to preserve evidence and establish negligence. National legal analyst emphasizes the need for an independent investigation.
"Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that must be thoroughly examined," said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. "These procedures help those who have lost loved ones receive the justice they deserve."
Key takeaways from analyst insights on pedestrian accidents:
- Independent investigations reveal hidden factors like road design flaws.
- Evidence preservation is vital before scenes are altered.
- Lighting and signage play key roles in prevention and liability.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, highlights support for affected families.
"Grieving families are often overwhelmed by legal processes, and an attorney can guide them to ensure fair restitution," said Formica.
Potential Wrongful Death Claims
Families of Hadzikadunic and Hendricks may pursue wrongful death claims for loss of companionship, pain, and suffering. Such claims address both emotional and economic losses from negligence.
Insurance companies may push for quick settlements below the value. Attorneys advocate to secure comprehensive compensation, considering long-term effects.
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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).