Cherokee County, GA — November 13, 2024, Sandra Fitts was killed in a pedestrian versus hit-and-run van accident at about 6:30 p.m. along Cumming Highway.
According to authorities, 79-year-old Sandra Fitts was on foot in the vicinity of the Cumming Highway and Jordan Lane intersection when the accident took place.
The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, Fitts was struck by a delivery van; she suffered fatal injuries as a result of the collision. The van allegedly fled the scene, the 24-year-old man inside failing to stop and render aid of any sort to the victim. However, evidence found at the scene led authorities to the offending vehicle and, subsequently, the man who had been behind the wheel at the time of the accident. Authorities have recommended charges of first-degree vehicular homicide and hit-and-run resulting in death. Additional details pertaining to this incident are not available at this point in time. The investigation remains ongoing.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When I read about incidents like this one, where a pedestrian is struck and killed, then left by the driver, I can’t help but wonder what led to such a serious crash and the driver’s decision to flee the scene. From my experience, hit-and-run cases like this often reveal multiple layers of responsibility and call for a careful investigation to understand all the factors at play.
Based on what’s known, authorities found evidence linking the delivery van and its driver to the crash, but questions remain about what happened just before the collision. In cases like this, it’s crucial to determine whether the driver’s actions were the result of negligence, distraction, or even reckless behavior. Given that the vehicle involved was a delivery van, it’s also worth examining whether the driver was following company safety policies or if unrealistic expectations played a role in his behavior on the road. Investigating these concerns is central to coming to a full understanding of who might share responsibility in cases like this.
Another essential factor to examine is the condition of the vehicle itself. Delivery vehicles are often heavily used, with significant wear and tear. It’s important to determine whether the van was properly maintained and safe to operate, as mechanical issues like brake or steering failures could have contributed to the collision. Responsibility for vehicle maintenance typically falls on the company that owns the vehicle, and if any lack of upkeep played a role in the crash, that’s something that needs to come to light. Checking the vehicle’s maintenance records, including any recent inspections or repairs, would be a critical step in understanding if a mechanical failure may have contributed to the outcome.
Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the accident. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain critical evidence, it’s essential to consider every factor to ensure that those impacted by the accident receive the clarity and closure they deserve.
