Ryan Smith killed in pedestrian accident on Route 116 in East Peoria

Vehicle struck the Peoria man near the Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino

April 02, 2026 | East Peoria, IL

Ryan G. Smith, a 42-year-old resident of Peoria, suffered fatal injuries after being struck by a vehicle in East Peoria. 

The collision occurred around 8 p.m. on Route 116 near the Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino. Smith was transported to OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center, where he later died from blunt force trauma on April 3.

Ryan G. Smith, 42, died after he was struck by a vehicle while walking along Route 116 near Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino in East Peoria.

The East Peoria Police Department is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.

What Happened in the Crash?

• Date and Time: April 2, around 8 p.m.
• Location: Route 116 near Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino, East Peoria, Illinois
• Victim: Ryan G. Smith, 42, of Peoria
• Injuries: Critical blunt force trauma, the victim passed away the following day at OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center
• Vehicle Involved: Unspecified vehicle striking a pedestrian
• Investigating Agency: East Peoria Police Department

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?

Pedestrians remain highly vulnerable on roadways despite protective laws. Common factors include driver distraction, impairment, failure to yield, and poor visibility or road conditions.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), an estimated 212 pedestrians lost their lives on Illinois roads in 2024, marking an 8% rise from the prior year.

Data highlights the growing concern for pedestrian safety, with national trends showing similar increases reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Legal Insights

National legal analyst Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, emphasizes the importance of thorough investigations in pedestrian collisions.

“In cases such as this, having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a pedestrian accident and prove negligence,” said Bond. “Road conditions, visibility, and lighting are all possible contributing factors considered and examined. An accident reconstruction team is sometimes needed to help piece together what happened. All of these resources are necessary for helping clients receive monetary compensation for damages or a loss following a pedestrian accident.”

• Key Takeaways:

  • Investigate factors like road conditions and visibility to establish negligence.
  • Use accident reconstruction for accurate circumstance recreation.
  • Pursue compensation for medical costs, lost income, and other damages.

Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, addresses potential claims for families.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Formica. “Family members may seek damages for loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress following a tragic accident. Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”

• Key Takeaways:

  • Drivers must yield to pedestrians as a primary duty.
  • Wrongful death claims can cover emotional and financial losses.
  • Legal representation protects against lowball insurance offers.

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