Driver in BMW strikes man after he exits vehicle near East Thomas Green Road
December 05, 2025 | Jonesboro, AR
A tragic vehicle-pedestrian collision claimed the life of 51-year-old Shannon East on Friday evening.
What Happened in the Crash?
Shannon East, 51, of Jonesboro, died after a southbound BMW struck him as he retrieved an item from the roadway on Highway 351 near East Thomas Green Road.
According to the Arkansas Department of Public Safety report, East was driving along Highway 351 when he pulled over to retrieve an item from the roadway near East Thomas Green Road around 7:03 p.m. Upon stepping out of his vehicle, he was struck by a southbound 2019 BMW.
- Date and Time: Dec. 5, 2025, approximately 7:03 p.m.
- Location: Highway 351 near East Thomas Green Road, Jonesboro, AR
- Victim: Shannon East, 51, of Jonesboro
- Vehicle Involved: 2019 BMW traveling southbound
- Outcome: East was transported to NEA Hospital, where he succumbed to injuries
- Investigation: Ongoing by the Jonesboro Police Department
East received immediate medical attention and was transported to NEA Hospital, but he was pronounced deceased upon arrival.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian safety remains a critical concern on U.S. roadways, where drivers bear primary responsibility for vigilance. Factors such as road conditions, visibility, and adherence to traffic laws play significant roles in preventing such incidents.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that pedestrian fatalities have risen in recent years, underscoring the need for thorough investigations to identify contributing elements.
Factor |
Description |
Source |
|---|
Road Conditions |
Uneven surfaces or debris in the roadway can prompt sudden stops |
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) |
Visibility and Lighting |
Poor lighting at dusk increases risks for pedestrians |
CDC Pedestrian Safety Guidelines |
Driver Distraction |
Failure to yield to pedestrians exiting vehicles |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
Speeding |
Higher speeds reduce reaction time in collisions |
GHSA Annual Report |
Legal Insights
National legal analysts provide valuable perspectives on pedestrian collisions, emphasizing the importance of detailed investigations in cases such as this.
“Investigating a pedestrian accident requires examining road conditions, visibility, and lighting as potential factors,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal. “An accident reconstruction team may be essential to determine what occurred and support claims for compensation.”
Key takeaways from analyst insights:
- Pedestrians are vulnerable in vehicle collisions, making driver responsibility paramount.
- Families may pursue wrongful death claims for losses including income, companionship, and emotional distress.
- Attorneys can advocate against lowball insurance settlements to ensure fair compensation.
- Resources like reconstruction professionals help prove negligence without relying on initial reports.
“Drivers must yield to pedestrians at all times,” noted Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “In tragic cases, legal guidance helps families navigate claims while honoring their loved one's memory.”
Next Steps for Families Affected by Pedestrian Crashes
The Jonesboro Police Department continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding this fatal crash. Authorities urge drivers to remain alert, especially in areas with potential roadway hazards.
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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).