A quick-thinking police officer and an attentive motorist may have prevented tragedy on the Harbour Expressway Tuesday afternoon.
The Thunder Bay Police Service Traffic Unit officer was travelling on the Harbour Expressway, and approaching the Balmoral Street intersection, just before 4 p.m. on Tuesday April 25 when they observed a pedestrian walking into the path of incoming traffic.
The pedestrian appeared not to be paying attention and completely unaware they were crossing on a red, and entering the path of multiple fast-travelling motor vehicles.
The officer saw the incident unfolding quickly, but had no way to physically stop or slow the pedestrian or oncoming motor vehicles.
The officer turned his cruiser siren on, which appeared to just catch the attention of the pedestrian. The pedestrian’s vision was obscured by their toque, and after looking toward the officer’s cruiser was able to see she was entering the path of an SUV.
The motorist also slowed and swerved, before coming to a stop just beyond the intersection crosswalk. This action was also a significant contributing factor in ensuring this incident did not end tragically.
The pedestrian was charged under the Highway Traffic Act for: Pedestrian Disobey “Don’t Walk” Signal.
The Thunder Bay Police Service would like to warn the public that we often observe both motorists and pedestrians losing focus when a long and bitter winter finally comes to an end.
For pedestrians, no longer having to navigate icy sidewalk and crosswalk hazards often leads to distracted walking. Meanwhile, some motorists drive faster and more carelessly when roadways are bare and dry.
We would like to thank all of the motorists who continue to drive with extra care, sober, and distraction free.
VIDEO: https://youtu.be/b8-vlDd_FcA
Incident Date
Location
Thunder Bay