A tragic incident in Statesboro, Georgia, has left a community in mourning after a 57-year-old woman, identified as Mary Lastinger, lost her life in a collision with a truck while riding a tricycle. The accident occurred at the intersection of E Parrish St and N Main St on the morning of Wednesday, December 10. Emergency services were called to the scene, but despite efforts to resuscitate her, Lastinger succumbed to her injuries.
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The Georgia State Patrol (GSP) reported that Lastinger was crossing GA73 within a marked crosswalk, moving north from the south shoulder of East Parrish Street. Despite the crosswalk indicator showing a stop/don’t walk signal for pedestrians, Lastinger entered the roadway, where she was struck by a truck travelling east on East Parrish Street with a green traffic signal. The low height of her tricycle may have contributed to visibility issues, with officials suggesting that the driver may not have seen her due to the blinding morning sun.
Bulloch County Deputy Coroner Richard Pylant remarked on the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident, highlighting the challenges posed by the intersection and the low visibility for both pedestrians and drivers. Mark Carpenter, the owner of a nearby tire shop, provided surveillance footage capturing the moment of impact. The footage showed Lastinger waiting at the crosswalk before being hit by a white truck, underscoring the devastating nature of the accident.
Following the incident, Lastinger was initially found without any identification on her person. However, her identity was later confirmed using a fingerprint scanner. The local community, including Carpenter, expressed their condolences and sympathies to Lastinger’s family, particularly noting the poignant timing of the accident just weeks before Christmas. The holiday season will undoubtedly be a difficult period for her loved ones as they come to terms with their loss.
As the community grapples with this tragedy, questions may arise concerning road safety and the need for improved visibility at intersections. While the circumstances of the accident are under investigation, it serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of vigilance and caution on the roads. The impact of this incident extends beyond the immediate aftermath, resonating with residents who are now calling for measures to enhance pedestrian safety in the area.
In the wake of this heartbreaking event, the local authorities are urging drivers to remain attentive and vigilant, especially during times of reduced visibility. The loss of Mary Lastinger has left a void in the community, prompting reflection on road safety practices and the need for enhanced measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. As the investigation continues, the memory of Lastinger serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of ensuring the safety of all road users.