A tragic incident occurred in South Charleston, West Virginia, on 21 September, claiming the life of a 12-year-old boy, Hunter Allen Combs. The boy was struck by a vehicle while crossing at an intersection on MacCorkle Avenue near Rock Lake Drive. Despite efforts to save him, he later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.
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Hunter was a sixth-grade student at Dunbar Middle School and was remembered fondly by his family and friends as a caring and protective brother. His mother, Lisa Combs, created a GoFundMe fundraiser to assist with funeral expenses, sharing that Hunter was born and raised in the community and had a close relationship with his siblings. “He was a protector for his younger brother and his oldest brother,” she wrote, stating that Hunter had a strong dislike for bullying. His vibrant personality and smile were described by his mother as capable of brightening anyone’s day.
Following the incident, the South Charleston Police Department immediately launched an investigation. They reviewed surveillance footage from the scene and reported that there was no indication that the driver had breached any traffic laws at the time of the collision. This finding has raised numerous questions within the community about the safety of the intersection where the incident occurred.
Dunbar Middle School issued a statement expressing their sorrow over Hunter’s passing, stating, “Our school community is grieving the sudden loss of a classmate. Our hearts are with the student’s family, friends, and classmates.” The school has made grief counsellors available for students and staff who wish to share their feelings or receive support during this difficult time.
Residents have begun to voice concerns regarding the safety of the intersection, noting that it is regularly used by pedestrians and cyclists. Local resident Howard Waldron expressed his worries about the visibility at night, stating that “the intersection is very unlit,” which he believes contributed to the accident. Community members are calling for improvements to enhance pedestrian safety, as many feel that the current lighting and crosswalk visibility are inadequate.
In a statement to WSAZ, South Charleston Mayor Frank Mullens acknowledged the community’s concerns but expressed his belief that the area is safer than in previous years. “In the past, buildings near the intersection made it more difficult for drivers to see pedestrians,” he said, indicating that improvements had been made to the intersection over time.
As the community continues to grapple with this sudden loss, Hunter’s family has expressed their profound grief. “My boy was taken from us way too soon. Life isn’t fair. Our Hunter Bear will be missed deeply. Fly high, my boy,” his mother posted on the crowdfunding platform. The outpouring of support highlights the impact Hunter had on his family and friends within the local community.
As preparations for Hunter’s funeral proceed, the incident serves as a painful reminder of the need for increased pedestrian safety measures. The community remains on alert, hoping for improvements to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.