The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was killed in an apparent hit-and-run in Grand Bahama on Tuesday night, the country’s 29th traffic fatality for the year and the second pedestrian death in the same poorly lit area in just over a month.

Police said the victim, believed to be an Indian national in his 30s, was jogging east along Royal Palm Way shortly before 9pm when he was struck by a black SUV travelling west in the eastbound lane near Coral Road.

Superintendent Christopher Farquharson, officer in charge of the Traffic Division in Grand Bahama, said the man was found unresponsive in the road with serious head injuries.

EMS personnel took him to Rand Memorial Hospital, where he died shortly after midnight on Wednesday.

Police were still working to confirm his identity and age up to press time.

A 46-year-old man suspected of fleeing the scene was later arrested and is assisting police with their investigation.

Supt Farquharson said investigators, acting on information, found the suspected vehicle at a nearby residence with extensive front-end and windshield damage.

The killing has renewed concern about pedestrian safety in the Royal Palm Way and Coral Road area, where residents have complained about darkness caused by inadequate street lighting.

On May 17, Joshua Rolle, a 67-year-old security officer at La Roc Bar and Grill, was walking home from work around 10.45pm along Coral Road, off Royal Palm Way, when he was hit by a flatbed tow truck. He died at the scene.

Supt Farquharson said police have recorded an increase in accidents, including serious crashes involving pedestrians, in recent months.

He said pedestrians walking in the road, poor lighting and speeding remain major factors in traffic accidents on Grand Bahama.

"One of the main reasons we are seeing an increase in accidents, from what I'm seeing from my chair, is that in a lot of cases pedestrians are walking in the road,” he said. “That plays a very important part in many of these accidents.

"Additionally, in many areas we have noticed a lack of proper lighting, so motorists cannot see pedestrians in time to make manoeuvres to avoid an accident. Also, of course, in most circumstances, we know that speed plays a part."

He urged pedestrians and joggers to wear light-coloured or fluorescent clothing at night and to walk on the side of the road.

He also urged pedestrians to look both ways before crossing and warned drivers to remain alert, obey speed limits and drive with due care.

Supt Farquharson said drivers involved in crashes must stay at the scene and contact police.

“If you find you hit (someone) or are involved in an accident and leave the scene, you will be dealt with accordingly,” he said. “We advise you to remain on the scene and call the police.”