A woman died and her dog was hurt when they were struck while crossing an area highway last night.
Delaware State Police say Donna Potter, 44, was crossing westbound lanes of Pulaski Highway (U.S. Route 40) near Oriole Avenue in Bear, Del. on Thursday night when she was struck by a Kia Soul.
The Bear resident was taken to Christiana Hospital, where police say Potter was pronounced dead. A dog that was also hit was taken to a local veterinarian for treatment.
The driver was not injured and not immediately charged.
Police say the pedestrian was not crossing in a crosswalk or wearing reflective clothing. The collision reconstruction unit is investigating the crash.
Troopers hoped the crash would serve as a warning to pedestrians.
“If you must cross a roadway, utilize appropriate cross walks and make sure to look left, then right, then left again before proceeding,” said police in a statement. “When walking near a roadway always make yourself visible to drivers by wearing bright or light colored clothing and reflective materials. Pedestrians who are walking at night must carry a flashlight for added safety.”
