Salem, OR – A tragic accident occurred Wednesday afternoon in downtown Salem when a Cherriots bus struck and killed a man in a crosswalk. According to the Salem Police Department, the incident took place as the bus driver was making a right turn.
The victim, identified as a Salem resident, was walking in a marked crosswalk at the time of the collision. Authorities have not yet released the man’s name, pending notification of family members.
The driver of the Cherriots bus, whose identity has also been withheld, was reportedly unharmed in the incident. Police stated that they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, though initial reports suggest that the bus driver may not have seen the pedestrian while executing the turn.
Witnesses to the accident have expressed shock and concern, and the scene was closed for several hours as investigators gathered evidence and reviewed surveillance footage from nearby cameras. Police are working to determine whether the pedestrian had the right of way and if any additional factors contributed to the accident.
This incident marks the second fatal pedestrian accident in downtown Salem this year, drawing increased attention to pedestrian safety in the area. Local officials have promised to review traffic patterns and make adjustments as needed to ensure the safety of pedestrians in busy parts of the city.
The investigation into the fatal crash remains ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward with any information that could assist in the inquiry.
As of now, no charges have been filed against the bus driver, and no further details have been released.
